Medieval Garb

Religious agendas existed as this shift of power was happening throughout the Medieval Period. The Catholic Church survived the fall of the Empire, and they were determined to have religious control. The Church justified invading Jerusalem by saying that the Holy Land should belong to them. This led to the Crusades, where anyone who wasn't Christian was tortured or killed. Literacy reached an all time low as the Church controlled education, allowing only Latin to be spoken.

In contrast, technology was advancing in Islamic's "Golden Age". This knowledge made its way through Europe in the 12th century, along with literature lost for generations. This led to the Renaissance period, a time for great intellect and artistry. The famines of England and France along with the Black Plague left many casualties, and yet nations were born in the Middle Ages that live to this day.

Medieval weapons of destruction were ruthless, so heavy protection in battle was essential. A suit of armor made it possible to survive in combat. Knights especially needed the protection, as they were often called to battle with little notice. Chain armor was made from thousands of small metal rings that were interwoven together and covered the wearer from head to toe. This particular armor was reserved for the knights and front line warriors, as metal was expensive and in short supply. Although difficult to put on and remove, it afforded easy movement in battle. The biggest drawback was the possibility of a sharp arrow or spear hitting one of the gaps in the metal.

The armor used by most of the peasants and workers was less durable, made of tough leather and plenty of cloth for padding. It may not have afforded the same protection as metal, however it was still quite effective and much easier to obtain.

In the later 13th century, plate armor was created. Initially the plate was added to the chest of chain armor to add further protection. By the 14th century, whole suits of armor were made from plate metal which didn't have the gaps that the chain did. The most popular image of the medieval knight was born from this particular armor.

As in all things, Medieval costumes were dependent upon affordability and status. It was not allowed for people to dress outside of their social class. Those without a lot of money or social standing wore simple clothing such as tunics, capes and shawls that were handmade. Wool and linen were the fabrics most widely used along with leather for shoes. Religious clergy generally wore long brown robes that were belted at the waist. It was the clothing of the nobility that is the most popular image of medieval garb, although it must be noted that the wealthy were not a majority of the people.

The clothing worn by the wealthy was made from imported silks and fabrics. Tunics were worn underneath with the women wearing long flowing dresses and shawls and the men wearing trunk hose (ballooning breeches that ended at the middle of the thigh) , coat (or shirt) and surcoat (similar to a vest). In the early part of the Middle Ages, shoes came to a point at the top. As time went on the tops of the shoes were square or round. Women wore pointed hats with flowing veils as well as caps that would hold their hair in a bun.

Sometimes the clothes were so impractical that it required assistance for dressing and undressing. The wealthy also wore an abundance of furs and jewelry attached to their clothing. The Renaissance brought the Italian influence to clothing, and many classic ensembles were created then.

Along with the armor and garb worn in the Middle Ages, accessories were also useful in protection and carrying possessions and weapons. Bracers (leather bands that cover the forearm) were essential in protecting a knight or warrior from the slice of a sword, lessening the danger of chain armor gaps giving an enemy the advantage.

Daggers were carried in "dagger frogs" or leather carriers that suspend from the belt. This made for easy transport as well as accessibility when needed in battle. Sword frogs were also used, as the belt was often the place where most weapons were carried.

Clothing did not have pockets in this time, so pouches were made to hang from the belt as well. These were used to carry personal items and money. Mug straps were also used to carry a drinking mug when traveling. Again, these were worn on the belt.

Since belts were basically where a warrior or nomad carried most of what they owned, they needed to be extremely strong and durable. A good sturdy leather belt was essential for easy travel.

Medieval times may be centuries past, however these accessories are still made today. Interest in this particular time in history has remained strong, and many people enjoy having these bits of the past to wear. Renaissance fairs and medieval live action role playing games have increased the popularity of these accessories, and add a sense of realism.