~ A belt on which a pouch, tools and other accessories can be hung usually complements the outfit.
~ Linen or calico head covering with varying ways of fastening, either with short braids, or ties from the side panel of the coif. Head covering would be worn at all times.
(It would also help to keep your lice to yourself!!)
~ Linen (off-white) or calico:- We recommend that you have at least two, especially if you plan to take part in combat as it gets very hot and its nice to have a clean & dry shirt to put on. There are various styles though the difference is mainly how it neck is fastened (if at all) the most popular style has a collar band that extends into two ties in front, other variations include hook and eye as well as button fastening or you could go without fastenings of any kind and have a fold over “cowl” style neck or a “slit neck which is the simplest design.
~ Linen or calico underpants. These come in various styles and length from mid calf length to an almost modern “brief” design, however the most common style, both from illustrated resources and amongst the re-enactment community are of a
“mid thigh” length. Rather like boxing shorts.
Again we recommend at least two pairs for comfort.
~ The joined hose are more “fashionable” during our period however split hoes are a good idea if you intend to fight. They are less prone to rip and are very comfortable, especially on warm days as they can be rolled down to the ankles alternately they can be worn over joined hose for extra warmth on cold days. Made from wool.
~ Are tight fitting and sleeveless doublets in shape with wide cut armholes, may be worn under a Doublet or Jacket and are usually used to hold up hoes. Made from two layers of linen, one to make the outer side of the garment the other to make the lining and has “points” to attach hose.
~ Woollen, with sleeves. Can be fastened with "points" or buttons
~ Woollen soldiers jacket , (marvellous for cold weather). Comes in various lengths from knee to floor length. Also known as a Livery Jacket (we can usually supply cloth & pattern for our household members).
~ Very handy for cold weather, these can be either pullover or fasten up the front with buttons and have a short mantle that covers the tops of the shoulders. Edging can be plain or dagged (cut with fancy shapes).Also has a lripipe attached at the back of the head.
~ Good shoes are the best if one of the most expensive investments you can make as a reenactor. They may seem expensive at first but remember, unlike your everyday shoes you will only be wearing them at weekends, and if you buy from most traders they are made to measure so are guaranteed to fit!
