Medieval Women’s Clothing
An individual’s social status was quite evident from the 11th through the 13th century by the type of clothing worn. Indeed, medieval women’s clothing not only reflected their standing in society, but also would signify if they were married or available for marriage. Clothing that was worn by nobility and others in the upper class, was generally made of silk and other expensive fabrics, and would tend to be more bright and colorful.
Medieval Dress and Gowns
Ladies, imagine yourself adorned in early medieval women’s clothing – you would wear a “kirtle”, which is a long tunic that came down to the ankles. This was worn over a shirt, and when in public, would be topped with another shorter kirtle. On a cold day, these layers of clothing would be comfortable, but on a hot August afternoon…wow! In addition to these garments, if you were married, you generally wore your hair in a bun covered by a net and a tight fitting cap. Those who were out to attract a suitor would generally wear their hair loose or in braids, covered by a loose fitting veil. If you happened to be in the more affluent upper class, your clothing would naturally be more luxurious, and certainly the best fabrics.

Medieval Shirt and Garb
Peasants in those times wore the most simple style of clothing, and the cheaper type of fabric as well. You would not have any difficulty in determining who the peasants or commoners were, simply by their type of clothing. Some of these styles of medieval women’s clothing are becoming quite popular today, especially as costumes for certain holidays, and even for weddings. Most of the popularity can be attributed to various television programs that depict actors and actresses dressed in this period costumes.
Popularity has increased significantly in recent years for ladies fancy medieval dress costumes worn at Halloween and various other costume parties throughout the year. Certain BBC drama programs such as Merlin and Robin Hood have made medieval women’s clothing the outfit of choice for these activities.
Medieval women’s clothing is portrayed as very sexy and feminine, as well as extremely glamorous, in these popular television series. This makes for the perfect qualities for a female costume. The selection today is quite extensive for good quality medieval outfits for women that can be purchased from discriminating websites online. Our research has revealed three general types of ladies medieval costumes.
The Medieval Princess Costume
The medieval princess costume is generally made from a long and regal crushed velvet dress with draped sleeves. Usually this type of regal dress will be trimmed with silver sequined detailing, with colored netting cascading from the sleeves. To complete this elegant outfit, a pointed princess hat will be the coordinating headpiece. The hat is usually made from an expensive embroidered fabric with brocade trim, and is covered with a veil. This particular type of elegant costume is very beautiful and truly one to behold.
The Medieval Lady Costume
The medieval lady costume is equally as elegant as the princess costume. It is made from a rich velvet and the gown has a serf tie cord belt with dropped sleeves that are actually a netting material. This costume has become popular, thanks to Morgana le Fay, who wears this gown as she portrays the King’s ward in the popular television series Merlin. The Medieval lady costume will most times include a headdress with an attached sheer veil.
The Medieval Wench Costume
A medieval wench costume is the type of ladies fancy medieval dress costume that is worn by the character,Guinevere,in the television series, Merlin. This medieval outfit is usually based around a mid-length corset style dress, and for ladies with a fuller figure, can be quite flattering and sometimes, provocative! You will discover many variations on the medieval wench costume, but to complete the perfect look, the mob cap, a round, pleated cloth bonnet, is the must have accessory.
If you want to “turn heads” and otherwise stand out at this year’s Halloween party or other fancy dress affair, then you should consider medieval women’s clothing. More particularly, one of the dresses mentioned above will most certainly bring out those words you like to hear like sexy, gorgeous, glamorous and of course WOW! Look over our fine selection of very affordable dresses and purchase one to make this year’s party a memorable one.
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{ 6 comments… read them below or add one }
I was browsing and looking for a costume for a party that I’ve been invited to, and came across your site. After reading your informative articles, I decided to go for a medieval type costume. It really sounds cool and I can’t wait for this party. Thanks so much for the information and helping me to make up my mind.
This is a great era to relive. These costumes are great fun and there are so many themes that you can follow. The Renaissance Faire costumes will always be my favorite. You really do feel like you are thrown back in time when you wear these costumes. I will be wearing one this Halloween and can’t wait!
Wow, this site is awesome. So well written and clean. I bookmarked it.
Good article – do you know, where to find more pics from this century?
Medieval clothing is very attractive and has a great appeal. It is still used in several places. Like the wench one is worn by the oktober fest beer girls. Medieval dresses are always pretty . It is definitely attractive since IO wore this the other day for a party. It worked well with me.
I am a frequent reader of your site and would just like to say thank you! I have even been encouraged to setup my own blog so please check it out. John