Women's Medieval Dress: A Window into 13th-Century England

In 13th-century England, clothing played a significant role in displaying wealth, status, and even marital status. The life of Eleanor de Montfort, Countess of Leicester (1215-1275), offers an intriguing glimpse into the fashion trends and expectations of high-ranking ladies during this era.

Eleanor's early years were marked by a marriage to William Marshal II at just nine years old. Her clothing choices likely reflected her noble status and the expectations placed upon her as a hostess. As the youngest daughter of King John and Henry III's sister, Eleanor was expected to dress accordingly.

Clothing in medieval England was more than just about staying warm; it was an important aspect of one's social standing. Nobles often wore robes that covered their shoes, while married women would cover their hair with veils. Young girls, on the other hand, were allowed to wear their hair loose and uncovered.

Eleanor de Montfort likely wore a variety of garments, including small leather boots for walking outdoors and softer slippers for indoors. Her wardrobe may have included multiple girdles, which were used to secure tunics and hold keys and coin purses. The quality of her brooches would have reflected her wealth and status.

A woman's tunic was longer than a man's, with slightly narrower sleeves. It was worn by both men and women, and often consisted of multiple layers, including underwear, outerwear, and accessories like mantles and surcoats. Eleanor may have owned at least six different garments in her everyday wardrobe, as layering was a common practice during this era.

In conclusion, the clothing choices of 13th-century ladies like Eleanor de Montfort provide valuable insights into the fashion trends and expectations of medieval England. By studying her wardrobe, we can gain a better understanding of what it meant to be a high-ranking lady during this time period.

Womens medieval dress