Скачать или смотреть Hand-Sewing a Medieval Gown •*•

•*• This summer I took on a project that I’ve been dreaming of for a long time- hand sewing a medieval gown. When I came upon this gorgeous, sheeny green silk at my local fabric shop, I took that as a sign that it was time! I’m a novice when it comes to sewing, so I took a lot of time researching medieval sewing technique and garment construction, creating a mockup, and practicing my stitches before starting my final gown. It was such a thrilling process, and I’m thrilled with the results!

•*• I designed my gown in a style called a côte, which was fashionable in the Early and High Middle Ages. It’s a loose fitting, drop sleeve design; often cinched at the waist with a girdle (belt) and fitted at the wrists. I was inspired by illuminations of the medieval trobairitzes (the women troubadours of the 12th and 13th centuries) who were depicted wearing this stle of gown; as well as the gorgeous and detailed gowns illuminated in the Codex Manesse (14th century). Variations on the côte were worn by all genders and all social classes •*•

If you’d like to watch a long-form episode documenting my entire journey making this gown, I’d love it if you join me on Patreon where I share monthly long-form episodes full of historical music, cookery, craft and more for $3/month. So grateful for my Patrons, present and future•*•

Music composed and performed by Nina Dante •*•

•*• Image Attributions •*•

Illuminations from the Codex Manesse, by the Master of the Codex Manesse, held by the University of Heidelberg, Public Domain, via Wikimedia Commons

Illumination of Beatritz de Dia from BnF ms. 854 fol. 141, Illumination of Alalais de Porcairagues from BnF ms. 12473 fol. 125v, Public Domain, via Wikimedia Commons