An old engraving of the clothing worn in England, UK in the medieval times in the 1300s. It is from a Victorian history book of In the Middle Ages in England clothing differed widely for men and women as well as for different classes in the social hierarchy. In the early Middle Ages, clothing was typically simple. As time went on the advent of better made textiles, clothing got more and more intricate and elegant. Around 1300, well-off women’s gowns began fitting more tightly and had lower necklines. Clothing was layered. Around this time, the surcoat came into use.
An old engraving of the clothing worn in England, UK in the medieval times in the 1300s. It is from a Victorian history book of In the Middle Ages in England clothing differed widely for men and women as well as for different classes in the social hierarchy. In the early Middle Ages, clothing was typically simple and, particularly in the case of lower-class peoples, served only basic utilitarian functions such as modesty and protection from the elements. As time went on the advent of more advanced textile techniques and increased international relations, clothing gradually got more and more intricate and elegant. Around 1300, well-off women’s gowns began fitting more tightly and had lower necklines. Clothing was layered and these layers were tightly bound to the body. Around this time, the surcoat came into use. Women began wearing surcoats during the 13th century. The name derives from French meaning ‘over the coat’, a long, loose, often sleeveless coat often reaching down to the feet. Wealthier women would use fabrics and materials such as silk and fine linen; the lower classes would use wool and coarser linen. The importation of luxury fabrics increased over the period, but clothing remained expensive. By the end of the 14th century, basic garments now included of the smock, gown, surcoat, cape, hood and bonnet. Very few people owned more than a few items of clothing.
Size: 3780px × 3112px
Location: England, UK
Photo credit: © M&N / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
Model Released: No
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