What was the name of a woman's dress in ancient Rome?

In ancient Rome, the stola was the traditional garment worn by women, typically characterized by its long, flowing design. This dress symbolized a woman's status as a Roman citizen and was often worn over a tunic, which was a more basic garment. The stola usually extended to the ankles and sometimes had straps over the shoulders or was belted at the waist, allowing for a fit that complemented a woman's form.

The stola was distinct from other garments such as the tunic, which was worn by both men and women but was less formal and often viewed as an undergarment. The chlamys, on the other hand, was a military cloak worn by men, while the palla was a shawl-like garment that women would drape over their stola when they went outside. Understanding these differences highlights the importance of the stola in signifying femininity and social status in Roman society.