Fashion Show - Autumn 2005

Part 2

14th/15th/16th Century cap and coif
Maker: Phil of Phil Fraser's
Model: Simon/Phil

This typical medieval headwear would have been worn by all classes during this period.
The expensive hat was made from felted fur or wool depending on the wealth of the owner. It's manufacturing process resulted in a conical shaped 'hood' which would then have been steamed and moulded into whatever shape was fashionable. The pointed hat with a small turned-up brim was one of the more simple and therefore more common styles.
Obviously because of the nature of felt fabric, the hat could not be washed. This was at a time when it was not fashionable or desirable to wash the body or hair. To stop the dirt, grease and wildlife from contaminating the expensive felt hat, a linen coif was worn. The coif could easily be washed. It was of a very simple construction and would also been worn as an informal hat indoors and in bed. The poorer classes would have worn a cap similar to this in wool or leather if they could not afford a felt hat.

Medieval girls
Maker: Viv of Merchant Venturers
Models: Rosie and Tribbs

These outfits from the latter half of the 15th Century are suitable for girls in the lower middle classes.
They can afford several layers of clothing which has been tailored to fit. Their status is also shown by their hats (made by Rachel of Crafty Beggars), which protect them from the sun while they are working (even at this young age)in the fields. Also, their footwear, simple leather shoes and wooden clogs, protect their feet from the worst of the mud.

Underwear consists of a handstitched shift, over the top of which would be worn a kirtle ( 2 in winter) of either linen or wool.
Their coifs and aprons are also made of linen and would commonly not have been made from bleached white cloth but were more often coloured, for practical reasons !
Around their waists they wear leather belts from which they could hang their knife, tools, spare clothing and possibly toys.

Late 15th century Archer
Maker: Sue, Tony and Paul of Kay's Medieval Kit
Model: Paul

Paul's outfit is completely handstitched!
He is dressed as an archer of the late 15th century (towards the end of the period now known in England as the 'Wars of the Roses' ). He depicts a mature and prosperous skilled man, a fletcher as well as an archer - rather than a more ordinary foot soldier.

His padded outer garment - a jack - is worn for protection but maintains his agility: it is constructed of many layers of linen stitched and knotted together. Underneath this he has a linen pourpoint to support his hose - also linen - on points ( ties). Beneath he wears a linen shirt and braies.
Only light armour is worn: as well as a breastplate he has an archer's sallet for his head.

His low boots are made of vegetable tanned leather and are of the latest turned-welt construction. Hanging from his belt he carries a pair of pattens which will protect both boots and feet in inclement weather.