Medieval male clothing still has its place in society today in the form of costumes for events. It's important to know exactly what is considered medieval clothing, a little bit of the history of it, and where to find it.
A Brief Medieval History
Medieval history spanned from the 5th century all the way to the 16th, following a breakdown in the Roman empire at the hands of tribal groups such as the Avars, Slavs, Bulgars, Huns, and Goths. The shifts in safety, laws, and more, created new economic, political, and religious conditions.
The Basics
So what are the basics of medieval clothing for men? There are some pieces that are still worn today, though they may have been tweaked a bit in style. Other items may only be seen at medieval festivals and events.
- Tunics: These are long, usually long-sleeve, shirts with high, scooped necklines . They were often partially lace-up and are made of linen or wool.
- Doublets:: Doublets are often made of velvets, brocades, or suede. They are formal, close-fitting jackets with buttons.
- Tights: Tights are opaque leg coverings that encase the lower half of the body meant to be worn under breeches.
- Hats: Medieval hats could be flat or floppy, but if you're shopping for one, don't forget the plume option!
- Breeches/Pants: Breeches covered just the hip and thigh (ending above the knee) in Medieval male clothing, while some men wore longer pants. You will often find these made of cotton when you're looking for Medieval costumes.
- Boots and shoes: Medieval boots came with all shaft heights, from ankle boots to thigh boots. Toes tended to be pointed. If the men could afford them, their shoes were usually leather.
- Cloaks: These are outerwear that cover the shoulders and hang down nearly to the ground. They also usually have a hood attached.
- Robes: Similar to the cloak, these could have hoods or come without. However, while the capes and cloaks have no sleeves, these usually do.
- Vests: These are sleeveless jackets. Vests are still commonly worn today.
- Jerkins: These are close-fitting jackets, often leather, and are without sleeves or collars.
- Sword belts: These are belts designed to help carry swords. Sometimes there is the belt that goes around the waist and a few angled straps to support the sword.
- Baldrics: These are belts that go across the chest from the right shoulder to the left hip, meant to help carry a sword or bugle.
Where to Buy Medieval Male Clothing
You can shop for Medieval clothing online almost as easily as you can shop for modern clothes. For most people, shopping online for this type of clothing is probably the way to go. Festivals draw people from all areas, but not all areas have clothing stores that provide a selection of medieval styles.
Sword of Honor
Sword of Honor offers not just medieval weapons, but tunics, breeches, tights, baldrics, leather armor, and more. You can even get medieval footwear replicas there. The prices are reasonable and the selection is one of the best online.
Tudor Shoppe
Tudor Shoppe has complete garb sets in machine-washable materials, so if you're looking for something quick, this may be the route for you. Though you may find yourself wishing for a $299.00 Scottish Rogue costume, you don't have to spend that much. Prices are reasonable. If you would prefer to hand-pick your items, you can choose from a selection of doublets, jerkins, breeches, kilts, pants, shoes, and boots.
A Final Word
Medieval male clothing tends to be reasonably priced and will give you the look of men of the Middle Ages for your next festival or event. Put your own costume together or choose one that includes everything you need for a flat price.
