The Medieval Period, often referred to as the Middle Ages, spanned from approximately 500 CE to 1500 CE. Throughout this era, fashion evolved significantly, reflecting societal changes, economic conditions, and cultural influences. Medieval clothing was primarily constructed from natural fibers like linen, wool, and silk. These materials were often blended to create a wide array of fabrics. Fur, a symbol of wealth and status, adorned garments for warmth or as a display of opulence. For the elite, luxurious fabrics woven with gold and silver threads showcased their power and affluence. Silk, often imported, was a precious commodity beyond the reach of the lower classes.
Sumptuary laws dictated attire based on social standing, profession, age, and marital status. These regulations aimed to maintain social order and prevent excessive spending on clothing. The financial burden of clothing in medieval times was substantial, comparable to spending a quarter of one’s annual income on apparel today. These laws reinforced the distinction between the nobility and the rising merchant class.
Despite these societal divisions, one commonality across all classes was the ubiquitous linen undergarment known as a shift, chemise, or hemd. Contrary to popular depictions in modern media, medieval fashion was vibrant and colorful. Dyes produced a spectrum of shades, from pastels to rich, saturated hues. While vibrant colors indicated greater expense due to the dyeing process, even laborers and agricultural workers were depicted in brightly colored clothing in period artwork like the illuminated manuscript “Tres Riches Heures du Duc de Berry.”
