Costume of 10th-11th

During the 10th and 11th centuries, clothing styles varied widely across Europe
and other regions depending on factors such as social status, occupation, and
climate.
Costume Components for Men
During the 10th to 11th centuries, men's attire varied based on factors like social
status, region, and occupation. Here are some typical components of men's
costumes during this period:
TUNICS
Men often wore two tunics, one over the other: an outer tunic and an under
tunic, usually both were the same length although sometimes the under tunic
was slightly longer and therefore visible at the lower edge of the garment.
If short, outer tunics were almost always made with close - fitting sleeves.
Sometimes sleeves extended over the hand with the excess fabric pushed up into
folds above the wrist. Long outer tunics were made either with fitted sleeves, or
cut wide and full, allowing the sleeve of the under tunic to show.
Tunics could be plain or decorated with trim or embroidery, with the level of
decoration often indicating the wearer's wealth and status. Sleeves could be long
or short, depending on fashion and climate.
Tunics were typically made of wool or linen, with wool being more common
in colder climates and linen in warmer regions. The quality of the fabric and its
color could vary depending on the wearer's social status and financial means.
Richer individuals might afford finer fabrics and more vibrant dyes.
Decoration on tunics ranged from simple to elaborate, depending on the
wearer's status and personal taste. Common decorative elements included
embroidered bands or borders, woven patterns, appliqués, or trim made of
contrasting fabric. Wealthier individuals might adorn their tunics with intricate
embroidery featuring motifs such as animals, geometric patterns, or religious
symbols.
Tunics were usually belted at the waist with a leather belt or fabric sash. Belts
could be simple or elaborately decorated with metal buckles, studs, or engraved
designs, depending on the wearer's status and personal style. This not only
helped to define the waist but also provided a means to carry items such as a
pouch or dagger.
We can say that, the tunic was a versatile and essential garment for men during
the 10th to 11th centuries, worn across different social classes and regions of
Europe. Its design and decoration varied widely, reflecting the diverse cultural
influences of the time.

Accessories
Accessories such as rings, bracelets, and necklaces were worn by men of all
classes, although the materials and designs would vary based on wealth and
status. Additionally, some men might carry items like a pouch for coins or a
small knife or dagger for utility and self-defense. Necklaces and torcs were
worn around the neck and were typically made of metal, such as gold, silver, or
bronze. Bracelets and arm rings were worn around the wrist or upper arm and
could be made of metal or other materials such as leather or bone. A dagger was
a common accessory for men, serving both practical and symbolic purposes. A
belt was a vital accessory for men, used to secure the tunic at the waist and to
hold other accessories such as pouches or daggers.
Hair and Headdress
During the 10th to 11th centuries, men's hairstyles and headwear varied based
on factors such as social status, region, and cultural influences.
Hairstyle: Many men in the early medieval period wore their hair long. Long
hair was typically left loose or tied back with a simple band or cord. Some men
preferred shorter hairstyles, especially those engaged in manual labor or
military activities. Short hair was typically cropped close to the head, though the
exact length could vary.
Headdress: Caps were a common form of headwear for men. They could be
made of wool, linen, or other fabrics.
Hoods were another common head covering, especially in colder climates or
during inclement weather. Hoods were typically made of wool or other warm
fabrics and could be worn over a cap or on their own.
Helmets were worn by warriors and soldiers for protection in battle. They
varied in design and construction, from simple leather or metal caps to more
elaborate helmets with visors and decorative elements.
Veils or headscarves men might wear for religious or cultural reasons. These
could be simple cloths worn over the head or wrapped around the neck and
shoulders.
Crowns or diadems might wear high-ranking nobles, kings, or rulers as
symbols of their authority and status. These were typically ornate and decorated
with precious metals, gemstones, and intricate designs.
Footwear or Leg covering
During the 10th to 11th centuries, men's footwear and leg coverings varied
depending on factors such as climate, social status, and occupation.
Turn shoes were one of the most common types of footwear during the
medieval period. They were made by turning the leather inside out during the
construction process, hence the name. These shoes were typically made of
leather and had soft, flexible soles.
Ankle boots were another prevalent style of footwear. They covered the foot
and extended slightly above the ankle, providing more support and protection
than turn shoes. Ankle boots were often made of leather and could be plain or
decorated with stitching or patterns.
Hose were fitted leg coverings worn beneath the tunic, similar to modern-day
stockings or tights. Hose were fitted leg coverings worn beneath the tunic,
similar to modern-day stockings or tights.
Socks usually these were brightly colored. Some socks with decorative figures
around the upper edges might be placed over the braies , over hose , or worn
with leg bandages.
Boots frequently decorated, boots might be either short to the ankle or longer,
reaching to mid - calf.
Flat shoes Raised heels were not used during the Middle Ages. Shoes were cut
with a slight point at the front opposite the big toe. Closely fitted, shoes
generally ended at the ankle fastening when necessary with thongs of leather or
fabric.
Byzantine - style slippers Cut low over the instep these were worn by some
clergy.
Cloaks
Cloaks were worn for warmth and protection from the elements .They could be
made of wool or heavy linen and were often fastened at the shoulder with a
brooch or pin. Cloaks might be plain or embellished with trim, embroidery, or
fur.
Underclothing
Underclothing consisted of undershirts and under drawers.
The garment that eventually evolved into the modern man's shirt originated as
an undergarment. Worn next to the skin, this garment was usually either
invisible or only partially visible. Until the 19th century, when shirts were no
longer considered to be underwear, this text will discuss shirts under the
heading of undergarments. Undershirts, sometimes referred to as a chemise,
were short - sleeved linen garments. Under drawers, called braies (brays) were
loose - fitting linen breeches fastened at the waist with a belt .Lengths varied,
ranging from knee - length to longer ankle - length variations, which were
wrapped close to the leg with gartering.
Costume Components for Women
Dressing as a woman from the 10th to 11th century, also known as the High
Middle Ages, typically involves garments and accessories that reflect the
fashion of that time period. Here are some costume components you might
consider:
Tunic
Women wore floor - length under tunics with close - fitting sleeves and an
embroidered border at neck , hem , and sleeves over which they placed floor -
length outer tunics made with wide sleeves , which allowed the under tunic
sleeves to show . Usually the outer tunic was pulled up and bloused over a belt
to display the decorative border of the under tunic.
Tunics were typically made of wool or linen. Wool was more common in
colder climates, while linen was popular in warmer regions. The tunic was a
loose-fitting garment that reached anywhere from knee-length to ankle-length,
depending on personal preference and social status. Sleeves could vary in
length, from short too long. The neckline of the tunic was typically simple,
often a round or slightly scooped shape. While simpler tunics might be plain in
design, those worn by wealthier women or for special occasions could feature
decorative elements such as embroidery, tablet weaving, or trim made of
contrasting fabric. Tunics were often cinched at the waist with a belt made of
leather or fabric. This helped to define the waistline and provided a practical
way to carry small items like keys or pouches. The style and design of tunics
could vary depending on the region and cultural influences.
Cloaks and Mantles
Cloaks were important outer garments for women in the 10th to 11th centuries,
providing warmth and protection from the elements. Women wore both open
and closed styles. Some were made as double mantles lined in contrasting
colors. Winter mantles could be fur - lined.
Hair and Headdress
Hair and headdress were significant aspects of women's attire in the 10th to 11th
centuries, reflecting cultural norms and social status.
Women in the middle ages often wore their hair long, though specific hairstyles
varied depending on cultural and regional influences. Common styles included
loose flowing locks, braids, or hair gathered and pinned up at the back of the
head. Young girls wore their hair loose, flowing and uncovered. Married ( and
older ) women covered their hair with a veil, which was pulled around the face,
under the chin; or open, hanging close to the sides of the face and ending about
mid- chest. The rich had silk or fine linen veils; the lower class used coarser
linen or wool.
Crowns and diadems were ornate headpieces worn by royalty, nobility, or
other individuals of high rank. While hats were less common for women in the
Middle Ages compared to head coverings like veils and wimples, some women
might have worn simple caps or bonnets for warmth or practicality.
Footwear or Leg covering
Footwear and leg coverings were important components of women's attire in the
10th to 11th centuries, providing both protection and style. Leg coverings were
worn for warmth and modesty, especially in colder climates.
Hose, Tight-fitting leggings made of wool or linen, worn under dresses or
tunics. Hose could be plain or decorated with embroidery.
Stockings, Similar to modern-day stockings, these were typically made of wool
or silk and could be worn alone or over hose for added warmth.
Leg Wraps, Strips of cloth wrapped around the legs from ankle to knee for
protection and support. Leg wraps were commonly worn by women in rural or
working-class settings.
Footwear
Turn Shoes, Soft leather shoes with a pointed toe, often fastened with a strap or
lace.
Ankle Boots, Boots that reached to the ankle, usually made of leather and
fastened with laces or straps.
Pattens, Wooden or leather overshoes worn over regular shoes to protect
against mud and dirt.
Jewelry
Rarely is jewelry depicted on paintings and sculpture of the period; however,
written records indicate that wealthy women wore head bands (circlets) of gold,
neck bands or beads, bracelets, rings, and earrings. Jeweled belts (often called
girdles) are sometimes depicted in art.