Realm Collections Blog

The Medieval times or the Middle Ages happened from the 5th century to the beginning of the Early Modern Period in the 16th century. During this span of time, the Medieval era was divided into three ages: Antiquity, Middle Ages and Modern Times. Due to these different “ages,” it is quite obvious that clothes and fashion have changed hands several times.  In earlier times, most people wore loose linen or wool tunics but eventually clothing became more complicated as people begin to learn how to design clothes as well as discriminate according to social standing.

Most Medieval men during this era wore tunics down to their knees but old men and monks wore long tunics in their daily lives. However, Medieval men also wore long tunics for parties and ceremonies. Subsequently, wearing pants under the tunics caught on not only as part of a fashion trend but because of practical reasons. It was more comfortable and warm to wear pants while riding a horse especially during cold climates. Another form of pants worn during this time, most especially by noblemen were the tights. However, these pair of tights is not the kind we know today since knitting was not yet invented during the earlier part of the Middle Ages. Thus, tights were worn loose under the tunics. Wool cloaks and leather were also worn to keep themselves warm.

Medieval men wore different outfits according to their status in life most particularly from the 11th century to the latter part of the Middle Ages. Peasants wore simple clothes usually made of wool or rough cloth; nobility wore more expensive and detailed clothes with emphasis on the sleeves of the garments; and knights wore surcoats designed with their coat of arms or family crest. By the end of 13th century, other forms of clothing were designed and used by Medieval men and these include undershirts, briefs, stockings, cloaks, jackets, hooded robes (often worn by monks), hats, pants, coats, boots, belts and other accessories, among many others.

For more Medieval clothing, drop by the Medieval and Renaissance Clothing department of realmcollections.