Medieval Costume Patterns

The social status often dictated the kind of clothing worn during the Medieval period. Here’s a look at some of the common Medieval costume patterns.

The Medieval period was a time when the styles of clothing varied from every region and this was also based as per the social status of the particular person. The affluent lot wore clothes that defined their status in society where as peasants wore clothes, which best suited their budgets. Each country had their own distinctive ways of dressing; therefore, Medieval costume patterns differed slightly from place to place. Here, we shall take a look at some of the basic Medieval costume patterns, which were worn back then.

Medieval Costume Patterns:

There were certain basic patterns that were worn by the peasant folk during the Medieval period. Many Medieval costumes were pretty basic and simple in their appearance. Peasants generally wore clothes that were made of woolen cloth. Women who belonged to the lower strata of the society wore shapeless dresses that were fastened by a girdle. The color worn by the peasants during the Medieval period were generally a shade of grey, red or even off-white. Women also wore wimples to cover their hair. Wimples were always square or circular in shape and this was worn with a band that covered the head. Women wore sleeveless tunics as well. Shawls were used during the chilly winters. Shawls worn in the Middle Ages were made of wool and went all the way down to the legs. The peasants did not really have a wide choice as far as Medieval clothing was concerned.

The Royal families in the Medieval period had their own set of tailors who stitched garments for them. Long gowns with long sleeves became quite a norm for women. Clothing for women was generally created with high necks in the early period of the Middle Ages and tunics were worn with or without sleeves. Women also wore veils that was worn over their head and covered the neck area. Women generally wore two tunics. The sleeves of their gowns were often decorated with artistic bands. Gowns became tight in their fitting later on and round buckles became a feature at the neck area by 1100. Gowns also had long cloaks floating behind! Surcoats also made their appearance and formed a major part of Medieval costume patterns and were initially worn only by women. Surcoats were generally used to wrap the upper area of the body like a robe. Royal families loved to display their wealth on their costumes and this was done by embellishing gold, sliver along with various precious stones on the garments. Heavy ornamentation was soon seen on the gowns. Medieval costumes thus became heavily ornamented and embroidered.

External corsets also became a major feature of Medieval costumes. This was often decorated with exquisite work in lace. During the latter part of the Medieval period, the trains were relatively shortened and the necks were styled wider as compared to the closed necks worn in the early Medieval period. Women’s dresses became more full and richer in their appearance.

Kings loved to wear fur trims with their clothing. Generally, clothing was loose and often worn with belts. Robes and cloaks were worn with pointed caps. Surcoats were made from rich fabrics and colors such as reds or scarlet were used to create the same. Tight waistcoats were worn with breeches. Puffed sleeves were also a trademark of Medieval costume patterns.

These basic Medieval costume patterns continue to inspire designers even till date. Many styles are used as a base to create contemporary designs, which still have a large clientele in various parts of the world.

By Kashmira Lad
Published: 7/29/2008

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