Late Medieval Wool Kirtle

Are you looking for an off-the-rack dress for your late 14th or 15th century persona? This wool kirtle is appropriate for 14th or 15th century impressions. It is full length, without a waist seam, laces up the front and has short sleeves.

This versatile dress makes a great base for your outfit. You can wear it on its own, over an underdress (smock, shift, chemise etc) and style it with accessories such as pin-on sleeves. You can wear it as the foundational layer under a gown. You can also wear it over a full-sleeved dress to provide a great contrasting layered look. 

Dresses of this style were commonly worn during the 14th and 15th century and were the basis for many outfits across different classes and locations. It makes a very practical dress for reenactment or LARP. You can pair it sturdy shoes and an apron and cook the breakfast, and then pin-on some sleeves to look more decent around camp and then put on a beautiful gown and hat to parade around in or attend court. 

Our reproduction is made with rectangular body panels, with side gores in the skirt and set-in sleeves. The neckline and lacing panel are faced with linen to add strength and avoid stretching. This is top-stitched to avoid it showing during wear. The eyelets are done by hand, but the other visible stitching (topstitching and hems) is done by machine, as is all the construction sewing.

This reproduction is made of 100% recycled wool and is a deep wine red colour.

Historically, wool was the most common fabric for kirtles. Not only was wool readily available, it has many properties making it ideal for clothing even today:

• The fibres of wool trap air, making it a natural insulator, helping you to stay warm.
• It’s breathable, which means it keeps you warm without overheating
  Wool is warm, even when wet and can shed water, making it a good choice to wear during rain.
• While not waterproof, wool can absorb up to 30% of its weight in water before it feels wet, which keeps you dry for longer in rain.
• It’s a durable fabric.
• Wool is naturally flame-resistant, and safer to wear than polyester during living history or historical events featuring campfires for warmth and cooking.

Care Instructions: Wool is naturally breathable and resistant to odours. Hand wash or spot clean with mild detergent and lay flat to dry to maintain its shape.

Product includes one wool kirtle and one lacing cord tipped with aglets. Other items and accessories not included.

Designed in USA. Crafted in Nepal. A Mythrojan product.