Getting Dressed as a Medieval Ploughman (Video)
What was involved in getting dressed as a Medieval ploughman? For farmers in the Middle Ages, conditions were harsh and the work backbreaking. But ploughmen were vital members of the medieval community and this was reflected in their attire, a step up than that of the average peasant. The ploughman's clothing was not only functional but also a reflection of his individuality and success. He wore linen breeches tied at the waist with a breech girdle, and his unbleached linen shirt was full-skirted and knee-length for warmth and freedom of movement. The woolen tunic or coat he wore over his shirt had splits at the side that revealed the lining and tapered sleeves, showing that fashion had reached all aspects of society.
His decorated leather belt not only held his clothes in place but also provided a place to hang tools such as a knife, pouch, or mittens. To cope with the harsh outdoor work, he wore high-ankle leather turned shoes with leather straps or laces to bind them into place. The ploughman's hood covered the neck opening of his coat, and his felted wool hat could be worn forwards or backward to keep off the wind and rain. The ploughman's clothing was a testament to his hard work, skill, and success as a respected member of the medieval community.
- The Hard and Dirty Life of a Medieval Peasant
- Tough Times Call For Tough Measures - The Medieval Village Hierarchy
Top image: Medieval farmer. Source: Marina / Adobe Stock.
