Fashion Show - Autumn 2005

Greek Hoplite c. 300 BC
Maker: Karen and John of Time Tarts
Model: Simon

The helmet of this ancient warrior is of the Corinthian type made from a copper alloy. It is this design which the medieval barrutte helmet was based on.

The body armour - "Linothorax" is made from multiple layers of linen which has been glued together. It forms a very stiff and lightweight body protection,
The fronts of the legs are protected by copper alloy 'greaves' held on by leather strapping.

With the addition of a large round shield, this warrior of 300BC is totally protected.

Roman Centurion 1st/2nd Century AD
Maker: Len and Elizabeth of Roman Reconstruction Fabrica
Model: Len'

The Centurion is identified by the transverse crest on his helmet i.e. a horse hair crest that crosses the helmet from above one ear to the other. The centurion leads his men into battle and the crest could clearly be seen by the men behind him.
He appears as on parade with his awards and torques plus his cloak. These would not be worn in combat.
The steel helmet, often silvered, forms his head protection. It has a brow reinforce to help deflect blows to the head and a deep neckguard to protect the neck. Large cheek plates complete the facial protection.

He wears a woollen tunica which reaches half way down the calves when unbelted. This tunica is pulled up to above the knees and draped. He should wear a linen under-tunic and in winter an under-binding similar to those shown on crucifixes.
Over his woollen tunica he wears a leather arming doublet with leather straps called 'pteruges', with fringes.
The mail our centurion is wearing is made up of very fine links and has shoulder doubling.

Over all this he wears his military belt, his dagger and his 'phallerre' or awards. As centurion he wears his sword on the left-hand side.
His legs are covered by silver 'greaves' which are not for protection but more a badge of office.
On his feet he wears the Roman military boots which are open leather boots with studs.

13th Century Guard corps
Maker:Sarah of Sarah Thursfield costumes
Model: Simon/Phil

The guard corps is a 13th century outer garment here made in a naturally dyes wool and lined with a contrasting wool. It is a very practical garment for travelling (think of those long sleeves when riding out on a cold day). It was very often seen on professional men such as architects and doctors - such a large expanse of quality cloth would be seen as the mark of a rich man. Note the early use of buttons at a time when most garments were still too loose to need fastenings.