It’s probably a nod to how the at times random ballets in the Parisian operas was meant to be eye candy for the wealthy male patrons.

The decorations on the bodice - the gold collar and the “crotch tiara” are strangely sexual, covering the erotic zones of the girls.

The skirt is made of ropes (not too unlike Bronze Age Egtvedt Girl), attached to a golden belt. The bodice is corseted, of alternating red and green panels, and with the seams covered with gold trims. Their costumes aren’t true historical costumes rather how the Victorians might have envisioned it. The splendor of Hannibal and Elissa’s court in Carthage is therefore reflected in the splendor of their slave’s clothes. Slaves could be the most beloved girlfriend, the family’s accountant, the head masters of schools, the best chef in town, the most sought after doctor, the superstar gladiator. A wealthy man would pride himself in dressing up his slaves well. In Roman times “ slave“ didn’t automatically imply rags and dirt. When moving, they look a lot more naked, due to the flimsiness of the rope skirt. When the dancers stands still, they look dressed. You get little about seams and a lot about possible historical sources, so read only if you’re really interested… I could give you the short version - and my interpretation of them (which might not be identical to other interpretations of it).

Phantom of the opera costume christine