The Vikings were known for their fierce warriors and legendary ships, but what about their fashion sense?
Viking clothing may not be the first thing that comes to mind when thinking of this ancient civilization. But it played a significant role in Norse Viking culture. In this blog post, we’ll explore the history of Viking clothing and how it evolved.
Read on and let’s dive into the world of Viking fashion!
Wool During the Viking Age
Wool was the most common material used for Viking clothing during the Norse period. The Vikings relied on sheep and goats to provide them with a constant supply of wool. This of which they would spin into yarn and weave into fabric.
Wool was ideal for Viking clothing because it was:
- warm
- water-resistant
- durable enough
This allows the clothing to withstand harsh weather conditions. The quality of wool varied depending on its source. Sheep from Iceland had long, coarse hair that made sturdy garments suitable for outdoor activities like hunting or fishing. Meanwhile, Norwegian sheep produced finer wool that could be spun into softer fabrics used primarily for indoor clothing.
Men Wore Tunics and Trousers
During the Viking Age, men wore tunics and trousers as their everyday clothing. The tunic was the most basic garment for a man. It covered his upper body and ended just above the knee.
Trousers were also a common piece of Viking clothing during this era. They were made of wool and often had a drawstring waistband to keep them in place.
The style of these garments varied depending on an individual’s social status. Wealthy Vikings were wearing more elaborate designs than their counterparts.
Some tunics had decorative trimmings around the:
- necklines
- hems
- cuffs
- along seams
Others were plain without any additional embellishments. These basic garments provided comfort and practicality for Viking men’s daily activities whether it be farming or raiding neighboring villages.
Clothing Patterns or Embroidery
Viking clothing was not only functional, but it also had a decorative purpose. Clothing patterns or embroidery were used to add beauty and style to garments, making them more appealing for the wearer and those around them.
Embroidery was done by hand using woolen threads of various colors. It was often used on cuffs, hems, collars, and other visible areas of garments. The designs could be simple or intricate depending on the skill level of the embroiderer.
Patterns were created using weaving techniques that allowed for different colors and textures to be woven together into elaborate designs. These patterns could be geometric, floral, or abstract in nature and were often found on tunics and cloaks.
Clothing Was Often Limited to Natural Dyes
Viking clothing was not just a way of keeping warm but also an essential part of their identity and social status. Their attire represented their wealth, gender, and even occupation.
While vibrant colors were appreciated in Viking society, they were often limited to natural dyes made from plants such as woad or madder roots. This made it difficult for them to achieve bright hues like reds or purples that required more complex processes involving animal sources.
To get a feel of this clothing, get these Viking pants today.
The History of Viking Clothing is Interesting
Viking clothing history is an interesting part of understanding the culture of the Viking era. Not only did their clothing reflect the harsh environment of their environment, but it also showed their resourcefulness and ingenuity. With a little bit of research, you’ll be sure to uncover interesting stories and facts.
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