Fashion in the Middle Ages: Class Distinctions and Clothing Laws

👗 Medieval clothing was worn for necessity, comfort, and display, with bright colors and rich decorations.

👑 Social classes and sexes had similar clothes, but more expensive items were distinguished by superior materials and cuts.

🧥 Clothes for all classes were tailor-made and made of wool, with extra decoration and finer materials for the wealthy.

In the Middle Ages, people wore under clothes made of linen, including long-sleeve shirts and drawers for men and a long chemise for women.

Both men and women wore long-sleeve tunics with low-cut necks or slits that could be tied at the neck.

Nobility often wore longer tunics with decorative embroidery, while a 14th century fashion called the Japan featured a tight tunic or jacket with padding.

👗 Women in the Middle Ages wore plain, single-colored dresses with minimal decoration, often with a different colored lining. Belts were commonly worn, sometimes with small decorative objects.

🎩 Men wore hose or long stockings, secured to the belt of their drawers. Women's stockings were shorter and held up by a garter. Tall hats and veils were commonly worn.

🧥 Cloaks and great coats were popular outer garments, with the option of a fur lining. Hoods and jewelry were commonly used for fastening. Gloves and hats were also worn.

Medieval women wore a wimple and indoor headgear, while men wore hats with brims.

Footwear in the Middle Ages consisted of high riding boots and ankle shoes.

Sumptuary laws were passed to restrict the wearing of certain materials by lower classes.

👗 Clothing restrictions were imposed on different groups in medieval society, such as clergy and knights, to maintain social distinctions.

💼 Access to clothing was restricted during times of economic strife and war, with limited new outfits permitted per year.

🛡️ Clothing played a significant role in displaying rank and job title, even in battle, with knights wearing armor and distinctive robes.

📌 Blonde hair was the beauty ideal in the 12th century.

🎯 Headpieces like the cabend and chapel were fashionable accessories.

💄 The hennon, a con-shaped headpiece, became popular in the 14th century.

👒 Fashion in the Middle Ages included headpieces like pillbox hats and the rise of the high forehead fashion.

👗 Long gowns and cloaks were common garments for women, often covering their feet, and footwear ranged from leather boots to slip-on boots and pointed shoes.

👢 Leather boots and peasant boots with straps and lacing were popular choices for footwear during the Middle Ages.