15th century cotehardie, wool, red

Product description

A kirtle (also known as a cotte or cotehardie) is a garment worn by both men and women in medieval Europe. It eventually became a one-piece garment for women from the late Middle Ages to the Baroque period. The kirtle was typically worn over a chemise or underdress, which served as an undergarment.

Kirtles were part of fashion until the mid-16th century, remaining a part of rural or middle-class clothing into the 17th century.

Kirtles began as loose garments without a waist seam and evolved into tight-fitting supportive garments in the 14th century. Later, kirtles could be made by combining a well-fitted bodice with a skirt that was pleated at the waist seam. Kirtles could be fastened at the front, back, or side, depending on the fashion of the time and place, and the type of dress worn over them. Kirtles could be decorated with various embellishments, including gold, silk, tassels, and buttons.

Our reproduction is made from rectangular body panels, with gores in the skirt and inset sleeves. The neckline and fastening panel are reinforced with linen for added strength and to prevent stretching. This is carried through to prevent it from being visible during wear. The eyelets are handmade, but the other visible stitches (topstitching and hem) are machine-stitched, as are the other construction stitches. The cotehardie has short sleeves, beneath which you can wear an underdress in a contrasting color.

This reproduction is made from 100% recycled wool and comes in a deep wine-red color.

Wool fibers trap air, making it a natural insulator and keeping you warm.
It is breathable, meaning it keeps you warm without overheating.
Wool remains warm even when wet and can repel water, making it a good choice for wear in the rain.
Although not waterproof, wool can absorb up to 30% of its weight in water before it feels wet, allowing you to stay dry longer in the rain.
It is a durable material.
Wool is naturally flame-retardant and safer to wear than polyester during living history or historical events with campfires for warmth and cooking.

The product includes one wool kirtle and one lace-up cord with aglets. Other items and accessories are not included.

Read more