Late Medieval Linen Kirtle

Are you looking for an off-the-rack dress for your late 14th or 15th century persona? This linen 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 with 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% linen and is a blue colour.

Historically, wool was the most common fabric for kirtles. Linen was a fabric available during the medieval period and it was commonly used undyed for underwear, headwear and linings. However, there is some evidence for dyed linen being used for dresses in some times and places. Linen kirtles are often popular with reenactors and LARPers because they are more suited to the warm weather. Linen is a natural fibre and breathes well, which wicks away moisture and helps keep you cool. It’s an excellent choice for warm events or when you want a cooler dress option. 

Care instructions: Machine wash at 40°C / 104°F (preferably with similar coloured clothes to avoid risk of colour transfer). Warm iron. Do not bleach or tumble dry.

Product includes one linen dress and one lacing cord tipped with aglets. Other items and accessories not included.

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