7th Century Angle nobleman as costumed by E.V. Svetova
7th Century Angle nobleman as costumed by E.V. Svetova

What Were the Key Fashion Trends in the 900s?

The fashion of the 900s, a pivotal period in history, was largely shaped by available materials like wool and linen. At mens-fashion.net, we explore these historical trends and provide insight into how they influenced modern menswear, offering style solutions inspired by the past with a contemporary twist. From luxurious silk garments to everyday wear, understanding the sartorial choices of this era enhances your appreciation for classic styles and informs your current wardrobe decisions.

1. Unveiling the Basics: Fabrics and Garments in the 900s

In the 900s, fashion was dictated by necessity and available resources, with wool being the most prevalent fabric for both the wealthy and the common folk. According to historical records, wool formed the cornerstone of the early English economy, directly influencing the wardrobe of every individual, regardless of their social standing. Garments were primarily crafted from this versatile and renewable resource obtained from sheep. Linen served as a secondary, more luxurious option, primarily utilized for underclothing. Silk, an exceptionally rare and costly material, was reserved for the affluent and used in burial shrouds of revered figures.

1.1. The Predominance of Wool

Wool’s significance extended beyond mere clothing; it played a crucial role in the economic and social fabric of the time.

1.1.1. Economic Importance of Wool

Wool was not just a material for clothing; it was a commodity that fueled trade and industry.

  • Trade and Export: Wool was a major export, driving economic growth.
  • Textile Industry: The processing of wool created jobs and supported local economies.
  • Social Indicator: The quality and type of wool clothing indicated social status.

1.1.2. Types of Woolen Garments

Wool was used to create a wide array of garments, each serving a specific purpose.

  • Tunics: Basic wool tunics were worn by both men and women.
  • Cloaks: Wool cloaks provided warmth and protection from the elements.
  • Legwear: Wool leggings or trousers were common for men.

1.2. The Luxury of Linen

Linen, though less common than wool, was highly valued for its comfort and fineness.

1.2.1. Characteristics of Linen

Linen was prized for its smooth texture and breathability, making it ideal for undergarments.

  • Comfort: Linen felt soft against the skin, reducing irritation.
  • Durability: Despite its fineness, linen was strong and long-lasting.
  • Cooling Effect: Linen’s breathable nature made it suitable for warmer conditions.

1.2.2. Uses of Linen in Clothing

Linen was primarily used for undergarments and other items requiring direct skin contact.

  • Under Tunic: Men often wore linen under tunics for comfort.
  • Shifts: Women wore linen shifts as a base layer.
  • Headwear: Linen was sometimes used for veils and head coverings.

1.3. The Rarity of Silk

Silk was the ultimate luxury item, reserved for the elite and used sparingly due to its high cost.

1.3.1. Silk’s Origins and Trade

Silk was imported from the East at great expense, making it a symbol of wealth and status.

  • Import Routes: Silk traveled long distances through established trade routes.
  • High Value: Silk’s rarity ensured its high market value.
  • Status Symbol: Owning silk garments was a sign of considerable wealth and power.

1.3.2. Silk Garments and Accessories

Silk was used in garments meant to impress and display affluence.

  • Robes: Silk robes were worn by royalty and high-ranking clergy.
  • Cloaks: Silk cloaks added a touch of opulence to ceremonial attire.
  • Embroidery: Silk thread was used for intricate embroidery on other fabrics.

1.4. Visual Representations: Manuscript Paintings

Manuscript paintings offer valuable insights into Anglo-Saxon attire, showcasing the luxurious tastes of the wealthy. These artistic depictions provide a glimpse into the fashion preferences of kings, queens, saints, and clerics, illustrating garments appropriate to their respective social classes. However, it’s crucial to acknowledge that these representations are skewed towards the opulent styles favored by the elite.

1.4.1. Depictions of Royalty

Manuscript paintings often feature royalty adorned in elaborate garments.

  • King Edgar: Depicted in the New Minster Charter, wearing royal attire.
  • Queen’s Attire: Often shown in gowns with detailed embellishments.
  • Symbolic Clothing: Garments reflecting power, status, and religious significance.

1.4.2. Clerical Vestments

Clerical figures were portrayed in vestments that reflected their religious roles.

  • Saint Æthewold: Shown in detailed ecclesiastical garments.
  • Elaborate Robes: Vestments adorned with intricate designs.
  • Liturgical Attire: Specific garments for religious ceremonies.

1.5. Additional Sources of Information

Insights into the fashion of the 900s are derived from various sources, providing a comprehensive understanding of clothing styles during that era.

1.5.1. Archaeological Finds

Excavated items such as grave finds and remnants from cess-pits offer insights into everyday garments worn by individuals from various social strata.

  • Grave Goods: Clothing fragments and accessories buried with the deceased.
  • Textile Remnants: Preserved pieces of fabric that reveal weaving techniques.
  • Egalitarian Sources: Offering a balanced view of clothing across different social classes.

1.5.2. Wills and Testaments

Legal documents like wills and testaments provide detailed descriptions of clothing items, offering glimpses into personal wardrobes and fashion preferences.

  • Specific Articles of Clothing: Naming and describing particular garments.
  • Bequests to Heirs: Highlighting which items were valued and passed down.
  • Personal Wardrobes: Providing insights into individual clothing collections.

2. Women’s Fashion in the 900s: Layers and Styles

Women’s fashion in the 900s consisted of several layers, including undergarments, gowns, cloaks, and head coverings, each contributing to a distinctive style.

2.1. Essential Undergarments

The foundation of a woman’s attire was the undergarment, or shift, typically made of linen.

2.1.1. The Linen Shift

The shift served as the base layer, providing comfort and protection.

  • Material: Predominantly made of linen for its soft texture.
  • Design: A slender garment with long, narrow sleeves.
  • Variations: Lengths likely varied, with some shifts being longer than others.

2.1.2. Absence of Underpants

It’s noteworthy that underpants were not a common garment during this period.

  • Historical Context: Underpants came into general use much later, around the late eighteenth century.
  • Sanitary Practices: Women used linen pads stuffed with wool fleece for menstrual hygiene.
  • Close-Fitting Drawers: Special drawers were worn to hold these pads in place.

2.2. The Long Woolen Gown

The woolen gown was the primary outer garment, with variations in style and embellishments.

2.2.1. Fabric and Color

The choice of fabric and color reflected the wearer’s status and personal taste.

  • Wool Quality: The quality of wool varied, affecting the gown’s appearance and comfort.
  • Dyeing Techniques: Natural dyes were used to create vibrant colors such as blue, yellow, green, and violet.
  • Color Significance: Colors may have had symbolic meanings or represented social status.

2.2.2. Gown Styles Through the Centuries

Gown styles evolved over time, influenced by fashion trends and cultural exchanges.

  • Early Anglo-Saxon Gowns (5th-6th Centuries): Simple tubes of fabric fastened at the shoulders with brooches.
  • Frankish Influence (Late 7th Century): Ankle-length gowns with wide sleeves, slipped over the head.
  • 10th-11th Centuries: More tailored gowns with fuller sleeves and contrasting cuffs, collars, and hems.

2.3. Decorative Elements and Accessories

Accessories played a crucial role in enhancing the overall look of women’s attire.

2.3.1. Girdles and Sashes

Girdles and sashes were used to cinch the waist and carry essential items.

  • Functionality: Used to suspend household keys, toilet implements, and decorative items.
  • Decoration: Girdles could be adorned with clasps of various metals.
  • Evolution: Became less prominent in later centuries, with fewer items hanging from them.

2.3.2. Bands of Contrasting Color

Contrasting bands of color added visual interest to gowns.

  • Placement: Adorned sleeves, hems, and collar lines.
  • Materials: Could be woven bands of wool or dense embroidery.
  • Aesthetic Appeal: Enhanced the gown’s overall aesthetic and sophistication.

2.4. Cloaks and Outerwear

Cloaks provided warmth and served as an essential outer layer.

2.4.1. Evolution of Cloak Styles

Cloak styles evolved from simple squares or triangles to more elaborate designs.

  • Early Styles: Squares or triangles of wool fastened with pins or brooches.
  • Later Styles: Knee-length enveloping garments worn over the head.
  • Embellishments: Adorned with embroidery, wire trim, and fur edging.

2.4.2. Hoods

Hoods were either individual items or integral to the cloak.

  • Practicality: Provided additional protection from the elements.
  • Integration: Could be attached to the cloak for convenience.
  • Variations: Available in various styles and materials.

2.5. Hairstyles and Head Coverings

Hairstyles and head coverings varied over time, reflecting changing fashion trends and religious influences.

2.5.1. Early Styles

Early Anglo-Saxon women wore their hair loose, plaited, or in snood-like nets.

  • Freedom of Style: Greater freedom in hairstyles.
  • Accessories: Simple caps were also used.
  • Curling Tongs: Indicating some hair was meant to be seen and styled.

2.5.2. Later Trends

Veil-like head coverings became more popular, influenced by Christian norms.

  • Veil Popularity: Increased use of veils and head coverings.
  • Religious Influence: St. Paul’s injunction that women cover their heads.
  • Nun-like Wimples: By the 11th century, headdresses nearly enveloped the head and neck.

2.6. Footwear

Footwear remained relatively consistent, with flat-soled leather boots being the standard.

2.6.1. Leather Boots

Ankle-height leather boots were the primary footwear choice.

  • Design: Flat-soled with a side over-flap.
  • Fastening: Toggles or laces for secure closure.
  • Variations: Wealthy women may have had boots with dyed colors or carved ornamentation.

2.6.2. Tanning and Decoration

Advanced leather tanning techniques allowed for various colors and decorations.

  • Color Options: Boots could be dyed in different colors.
  • Ornamentation: Carved or die-struck designs added to the aesthetic appeal.
  • Wealth Indicator: Elaborately decorated boots signified higher social status.

3. Men’s Fashion in the 900s: Tunics and Trousers

Men’s fashion in the 900s, while exhibiting less change than women’s, was characterized by tunics, trousers, and practical outerwear.

3.1. Basic Undergarments

The foundational layer of men’s attire included loincloths or breeches.

3.1.1. Linen Loincloths

Linen loincloths or short brief-style breeches were worn for comfort and hygiene.

  • Material: Made of linen for its softness and breathability.
  • Function: Provided a base layer under trousers.
  • Practicality: Essential for maintaining cleanliness.

3.1.2. Close-Fitting Trousers

Closely fitting leggings-like trousers of wool were a common garment.

  • Material: Wool provided warmth and durability.
  • Design: Fitted to the legs for ease of movement.
  • Leather Reinforcements: Leather strips were sometimes wrapped around the calves for protection.

3.2. Tunics: The Primary Outer Garment

Tunics were the main outer garment, varying in length and style.

3.2.1. Under Tunic

Well-to-do men wore a linen under tunic for added comfort.

  • Material: Linen provided a soft layer against the skin.
  • Fit: Fitted sleeves added to the overall comfort.
  • Wealth Indicator: The quality of the linen under tunic reflected social status.

3.2.2. Outer Tunic

The outer tunic was typically made of wool and varied in design.

  • Material: Wool provided warmth and durability.
  • Length Variations: Tunics ranged from thigh-length to calf-length.
  • Sleeve Styles: Sleeve lengths varied, including long full sleeves, long tight sleeves, and contrasting cuffs.

3.3. Belts and Accessories

Belts were essential for securing trousers and carrying tools.

3.3.1. Leather Belts

Leather belts held the trousers at the waist and were often adorned.

  • Functionality: Secured trousers and provided a place to hang tools.
  • Decoration: Belts could be decorated with metal fittings or intricate designs.
  • Status Symbol: The quality and decoration of the belt reflected social status.

3.3.2. Caps and Headwear

Headwear was worn for warmth and as a fashion statement.

  • Bare-Headed: Men often went bare-headed except in cold weather.
  • Furred Caps: Furred caps provided warmth during colder months.
  • Pointed Caps: By the end of the period, tall pointed caps became fashionable.

3.4. Footwear

Men’s footwear was similar to women’s, consisting of short ankle boots.

3.4.1. Ankle Boots

Short ankle boots with toggle or laced fastenings were common.

  • Design: Similar in style to women’s boots.
  • Fastening: Toggle or laced fastenings for a secure fit.
  • Toe Shape: Men’s boots sometimes had more pointed toes.

3.4.2. Monastic Footwear

Monastic records mention “wool night shoes,” possibly warm slippers for monks.

  • Warm Slippers: Felted wool slippers for warmth.
  • Secular Counterparts: Similar slippers may have been worn by laymen.
  • Comfort and Warmth: Designed to protect feet from the cold.

3.5. Gloves

Costly, richly embroidered gloves were mentioned in wills, indicating their value.

3.5.1. Embroidered Gloves

Gloves were a luxury item, often richly embroidered.

  • Material: Made from fine materials like leather or wool.
  • Decoration: Intricate embroidery added to their value.
  • Status Symbol: Owning embroidered gloves signified wealth and status.

4. Clothing for the Common Folk: Simplicity and Utility

The clothing of cottars, slaves, and children reflected their social status and practical needs.

4.1. Cottars and Agricultural Workers

Simple agricultural folk wore utilitarian clothing suited for arduous tasks.

4.1.1. Practical Garments

Clothing was designed for mobility and durability.

  • Mobility: Garments allowed for ease of movement.
  • Durability: Made from sturdy, coarse materials.
  • Bright Colors: Contrary to popular belief, garments were not always dull; most dyestuffs were readily available.

4.1.2. Dyestuff Availability

Most dyestuff was readily available, allowing for brightly colored garments.

  • Natural Dyes: Derived from plants and minerals.
  • Color Variety: Creating a range of vibrant colors.
  • Affordability: Available for all social classes.

4.2. Slaves

Slaves wore whatever their owners provided, often minimal and utilitarian.

4.2.1. Owner-Provided Clothing

Slaves’ clothing depended on the generosity of their owners.

  • Minimal Clothing: Often limited to basic loincloths or shifts.
  • Utilitarian: Designed for basic protection and functionality.
  • Summer Attire: Some slaves may have been essentially naked save for minimal coverings.

4.3. Children

Children wore simplified versions of adult clothing.

4.3.1. Miniature Adult Garments

Children’s clothing mirrored adult styles, but simplified for practicality.

  • Simplified Designs: Easier to make and maintain.
  • Comfort: Prioritized comfort and mobility.
  • Swaddling: Newborns were closely swaddled and diapered in modern-appearing cloths.

4.3.2. Diapering Practices

Newborns were swaddled and diapered in surprisingly modern-appearing cloths.

  • Cloth Diapers: Folded cloths used for diapering.
  • Timeless Design: The design of cloth diapers has remained largely unchanged for thousands of years.
  • Practicality: Providing comfort and hygiene for infants.

5. High-End Fashion: Silk and Leather

The elite flaunted their wealth through garments made of silk and leather, showcasing their status and power.

5.1. Silk Garments

Silk garments were highly prized for their beauty and rarity.

5.1.1. Imported Luxury

Imported from the East at great expense, silk was a symbol of wealth.

  • Brilliant Colors: Silk’s ability to take and hold vibrant colors.
  • Natural Shimmer: Its natural shimmer added to its allure.
  • Symbol of Wealth: Reserved for kings, king’s kin, and archbishops.

5.1.2. Types of Silk Garments

Silk was used to create luxurious garments for special occasions.

  • Gowns: Silk gowns for women.
  • Tunics: Silk tunics for men.
  • Cloaks: Silk cloaks or hooded mantles for both sexes.

5.2. Leather

Leather was valued for its utility and versatility.

5.2.1. Utility and Versatility

Leather was used for shoes, belts, jerkins, cloaks, and leg-wrappings.

  • Shoes and Belts: Essential accessories made from durable leather.
  • Jerkins and Cloaks: Providing protection and style.
  • Leg-Wrappings: Serving as protective greaves.

5.2.2. Tanning and Decoration

Tanners created various colors, and leather workers used tools to decorate the material.

  • Color Options: Charcoal, black, and brown colors.
  • Decoration Techniques: Etching, burning, and stamping designs.
  • Craftsmanship: Demonstrating the skill of leather workers.

6. Delving Deeper: Resources for Fashion Insights

To gain a more comprehensive understanding of Anglo-Saxon fashion, numerous resources are available.

6.1. Manuscript Paintings

Manuscript paintings offer prime examples of Anglo-Saxon clothing.

6.1.1. Aristocratic Depictions

These paintings often depict the lives and clothing of the aristocracy.

  • Detailed Illustrations: Providing visual representations of garments.
  • Facsimile and Originals: Available in both facsimile and original forms.
  • Vignettes of Aristocratic Life: Showcasing the fashion preferences of the elite.

6.1.2. Key Publications

Several books contain photos of manuscript personages and carvings depicting clothed figures.

  • “The Anglo-Saxons” edited by James Campbell: A comprehensive resource.
  • Photos and Carvings: Providing visual references for clothing styles.
  • Historical Context: Offering insights into Anglo-Saxon society.

6.2. Scholarly Works

Scholarly works provide detailed information on wills, bequests, and grave finds.

6.2.1. “Beginnings Of English Society” by Dorothy Whitelock

This book speaks to wills and bequests, offering insights into clothing ownership.

  • Wills and Bequests: Detailing how clothing was passed down through generations.
  • Clothing Ownership: Providing insights into personal wardrobes.
  • Historical Significance: Highlighting the importance of clothing in Anglo-Saxon society.

6.2.2. “Dress in Anglo-Saxon England” by Gale Owen-Crocker

An essential source for understanding Anglo-Saxon fashion.

  • Comprehensive Coverage: Providing a detailed overview of clothing styles.
  • Scholarly Analysis: Offering insights into the cultural significance of dress.
  • Primary Resource: A key reference for researchers and enthusiasts.

6.3. Additional Resources

Other books and societies offer additional information and resources.

6.3.1. “Rites and Religions of the Anglo-Saxons” by Gale R. Owen

Contains detailed information on clothing and jewellery in grave finds.

  • Grave Finds: Examining artifacts found in burial sites.
  • Clothing and Jewellery: Providing insights into burial attire.
  • Religious Context: Understanding the role of clothing in religious practices.

6.3.2. Historic Recreation Societies

Societies like Regia Anglorum offer historically accurate depictions of clothing.

  • Skilled Seamstresses: Providing advice and expertise.
  • Historically Accurate Depictions: Recreating garments based on historical evidence.
  • Practical Advice: Offering guidance on materials and techniques.

7. Modern Inspirations: Recreating Anglo-Saxon Style

Anglo-Saxon style clothing is simple to design and sew, making it accessible for modern enthusiasts.

7.1. Simplicity of Design

The simplicity of Anglo-Saxon clothing makes it easy to recreate.

7.1.1. Hand Stitching

Hand stitching lends great authenticity to seaming.

  • Authenticity: Providing a historically accurate look.
  • Calming Activity: Hand stitching can be a relaxing and meditative activity.
  • Bone Needle Absolution: No need to use a bone needle for authenticity.

7.1.2. Material Choices

Lightweight pure wool in pleasing colors is ideal for recreating garments.

  • Wool Thread: Use wool thread of narrow gauge.
  • Silk Thread: If wool is bothersome, use silk rather than polyester or cotton-blend thread.
  • Color Palette: Choose colors that are pleasing and historically appropriate.

7.2. Embellishments and Decorations

The decoration of the gown can be as elaborate as time allows.

7.2.1. Accumulative Embellishment

Embellishments can be added bit by bit over the years.

  • Time Investment: Allowing for gradual improvement and personalization.
  • Creative Expression: Providing an outlet for artistic expression.
  • Historical Accuracy: Striving for authenticity in design and materials.

7.2.2. Seeking Advice

Historic recreation societies boast skilled seamstresses who can offer advice.

  • Expert Guidance: Providing assistance with stylistic or technical questions.
  • Community Support: Connecting with like-minded enthusiasts.
  • Learning Opportunities: Gaining valuable knowledge and skills.

7.3. Accessories and Footwear

Accessories and footwear can complete the look.

7.3.1. Online Resources

Attractive brooches and other jewellery bits are readily available online.

  • Variety of Styles: Offering a range of options to choose from.
  • Historical Replicas: Providing accurate reproductions of historical items.
  • Convenience: Easy access to accessories and embellishments.

7.3.2. Footwear Options

Short boots based on the York Coppergate model and other interesting leather goods are available.

  • York Coppergate Model: A historically accurate boot design.
  • Leather Goods: Belts, pouches, and other leather accessories.
  • Authentic Look: Completing the Anglo-Saxon ensemble.

7.4. Occasions to Wear

Wear your creation at Yule celebrations and other festive occasions.

7.4.1. Yule Celebrations

Showcase your Anglo-Saxon attire at Yule festivities.

  • Historical Context: Celebrating ancient traditions in authentic attire.
  • Community Engagement: Sharing your creation with others.
  • Festive Atmosphere: Enhancing the spirit of the celebration.

7.4.2. Other Festive Occasions

Be proud of your creation and wear it at other festive events.

  • Personal Expression: Expressing your interest in history and fashion.
  • Conversation Starter: Sharing your knowledge and passion with others.
  • Unique Style: Standing out with a distinctive and historically inspired look.

8. Modernizing 900s Fashion: Tips for Today’s Man

Adapting elements of 900s Fashion into contemporary menswear can create a unique and sophisticated style.

8.1. Key Elements to Incorporate

Focus on integrating key elements such as natural fabrics, layered looks, and functional accessories.

8.1.1. Natural Fabrics

Opt for wool, linen, and leather in your wardrobe.

  • Wool: Choose wool for sweaters, jackets, and trousers for warmth and texture.
  • Linen: Select linen shirts for breathability and a relaxed feel.
  • Leather: Incorporate leather belts, boots, and jackets for durability and style.

8.1.2. Layered Looks

Embrace layering with tunics and cloaks, adapted for modern wear.

  • Tunics: Wear a long-sleeved linen shirt under a wool sweater for a modern tunic effect.
  • Cloaks: Opt for a stylish wool coat or cape for a contemporary cloak alternative.
  • Versatility: Layering allows for adaptable styles suitable for various weather conditions.

8.1.3. Functional Accessories

Use belts, pouches, and caps to add practicality and style.

  • Belts: Choose leather belts with simple buckles for a functional and stylish accessory.
  • Pouches: Incorporate small leather bags or pouches for carrying essentials.
  • Caps: Select wool or leather caps for warmth and a touch of historical flair.

8.2. Balancing Historical and Modern Styles

Ensure that your outfit blends historical inspiration with modern sensibilities.

8.2.1. Subtlety

Incorporate historical elements subtly to avoid looking like a costume.

  • Focus on Details: Pay attention to fabric textures, color palettes, and accessory choices.
  • Avoid Overdoing It: Limit the number of historical elements in a single outfit.
  • Contemporary Fit: Ensure that your garments fit well and have a modern silhouette.

8.2.2. Color Palette

Use natural and muted tones inspired by the 900s.

  • Earth Tones: Opt for browns, greens, and grays.
  • Natural Dyes: Choose garments that mimic the colors of natural dyes, such as blues and yellows.
  • Versatility: Muted tones are versatile and easy to incorporate into a modern wardrobe.

8.3. Example Outfits

Create outfits that blend historical inspiration with modern fashion.

8.3.1. Casual Look

Combine a linen shirt, wool trousers, and leather boots for a relaxed yet stylish outfit.

  • Linen Shirt: A long-sleeved linen shirt in a neutral color.
  • Wool Trousers: Well-fitted wool trousers in brown or gray.
  • Leather Boots: Ankle-high leather boots for a rugged touch.
  • Leather Belt: A simple leather belt to cinch the waist.

8.3.2. Smart Casual Look

Pair a tunic-style sweater with tailored trousers and a wool coat for a sophisticated ensemble.

  • Tunic-Style Sweater: A long wool sweater that resembles a tunic.
  • Tailored Trousers: Modern tailored trousers in a dark color.
  • Wool Coat: A wool coat or cape for warmth and style.
  • Leather Accessories: Leather gloves and a messenger bag for practical elegance.

8.3.3. Formal Look

Wear a silk tunic under a wool blazer with dark trousers for a refined and historically inspired outfit.

  • Silk Tunic: A silk tunic shirt in a rich color.
  • Wool Blazer: A well-fitted wool blazer in a complementary tone.
  • Dark Trousers: Dark dress trousers for a formal appearance.
  • Leather Shoes: Polished leather shoes to complete the look.

9. FAQs: Decoding 900s Fashion

9.1. What were the primary fabrics used in 900s fashion?

The primary fabrics were wool, linen, and silk, with wool being the most common and silk being reserved for the wealthy. Wool formed the cornerstone of most wardrobes, while linen was used for underclothing.

9.2. How did social status influence clothing choices in the 900s?

Social status significantly dictated clothing choices, with the wealthy able to afford finer materials like silk and more elaborate designs. According to historical records, the quality and type of clothing directly reflected an individual’s social standing.

9.3. What were some common garments worn by women in the 900s?

Women commonly wore linen shifts as undergarments, long woolen gowns as outer garments, and cloaks for warmth. Head coverings also became increasingly popular.

9.4. What did men typically wear in the 900s?

Men typically wore linen loincloths or breeches, closely fitting wool trousers, and tunics of varying lengths. Leather belts and boots were also common.

9.5. How can I incorporate elements of 900s fashion into my modern wardrobe?

Incorporate natural fabrics like wool and linen, layered looks with tunics and cloaks, and functional accessories like belts and pouches, while ensuring a modern fit and subtle integration.

9.6. Were there any significant differences between men’s and women’s footwear in the 900s?

Men’s and women’s footwear were quite similar, with both typically wearing short ankle boots made of leather, although men’s boots sometimes had more pointed toes.

9.7. How were colors achieved in clothing during the 900s?

Colors were achieved using natural dyes derived from plants, minerals, and other organic sources. Common dyes included woad for blue, weld for yellow, and lichen for violet.

9.8. What role did accessories play in 900s fashion?

Accessories played a crucial role, with items like girdles, brooches, and belts serving both functional and decorative purposes, enhancing the overall look and indicating social status.

9.9. How did religious beliefs impact fashion trends in the 900s?

Religious beliefs, particularly the growing influence of Christianity, led to changes in women’s head coverings, with veil-like coverings becoming more popular in accordance with religious teachings.

9.10. What are some reliable resources for learning more about 900s fashion?

Reliable resources include manuscript paintings, scholarly works like “Dress in Anglo-Saxon England” by Gale Owen-Crocker, and historical recreation societies like Regia Anglorum.

10. Discover Your Style Inspiration at mens-fashion.net

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