Medieval surcotte Isabeau, brown

Product description

The surcotte, originally worn as an outer garment by men, became more popular among women starting in the thirteenth century. The garment is intended to be worn over another piece of clothing. Wide, sleeveless surcottes were worn by the working class, while narrow surcottes were worn by the aristocracy. Narrow surcottes like this one emerged in the 14th century and were sometimes a controversial garment. This type of surcotte arose during a period of sexual liberalization.

The armholes of the surcotte grew increasingly larger, a popular fashion statement. Eventually, the openings reached the hips, as with this surcotte, allowing the underdress beneath to be seen. Because of this, the fashion trend faced criticism from some moralists. The medieval church deemed this fashion immodest, calling the armholes 'the gates of hell.' Nevertheless, the narrow surcotte continued to be worn well into the 15th century and was even a garment of state from 1525 onward.

This surcotte is made of sturdy cotton canvas, which makes the garment suitable for spring and autumn. The hems have a finely woven cotton rib. The armholes reach to the hips. The surcotte can best be combined with a belt and shift dress. A perfect garment for re-enactment and LARP of the thirteenth to fifteenth centuries.