Medieval Ages: An Introduction

The term ‘Middle Ages’ was used to describe Europe between the fall of Rome in 476 CE and the beginning of Renaissance in the 14^th century. Some scholars also refer to it as ‘medieval period.’  Truth be told, ‘medieval ages’ implies to the time period between two of the other important epochs in the history of mankind.

The term ‘Middle Ages’ tells us more about the Renaissance period than the era itself. From the 14th century, European thinkers, writers and artists celebrated the art and culture of ancient Greece and Rome. But they also dismissed the period after the fall of Rome. The era had no scientific accomplishments or great art or leaders to brag about.

To add to it, between 1347 and 1350, a mysterious then known as the “Black Death” killed some 20 million people in Europe – which sums up to a 30% if its entire population. It was a highly dangerous time to live in. Naturally the period was also known as the “Dark Ages.”

Fashion in the Medieval Ages

It was during this period, the spinning wheel was invented. It was a superior alternative to a hand held spindle. Its horizontal loom with foot treadles and shuttle made the production of textile very easy. Due to this, there was an increase in the production of cloth which in turn encouraged beautiful clothing and costumes that we associate with medieval Europe. Because the trade improved, the middle class was also able to emulate the styles followed, which were followed only by the elite otherwise.

In the 1200s, the costumes were very similar to what was found in the early Medieval Ages. Clothing then was considered as a status symbol. Stark differences were found in the clothing worn by different class of people. The church heavily controlled the way women dressed in this period. But this didn’t stop them from cleverly embellishing their clothing.

In the 1300s the Crusades were struggling to free their Holy Land from the shackles of Muslims. With the religious quotient running high, men joined in and in turn introduced the masses to new fabrics like velvet and new clothing designs. Civilians were also seen incorporating military elements to their garments. Clothes were seen making a slight change towards comfort and modern from the predominantly modest style seen earlier. Tunics worn by men and women and gowns were seen to be snugger and well fit – which increased their functionality. Women still wore veils, but they became sheerer.  Veils and other fabrics made of fine silk imported from the Far East were interwoven with golden thread for a shimmering effect.

Headgears were huge

A by product from the invasion of Muslims, headgears first found their way in Medieval Europe from the Middle East. A wimple, that is a piece of cloth was worn over the head and the neck by women. The style is still popular among Muslim women and Catholic nuns. Although worn for modesty, women from elite houses would decorate them with added padded rolls.

As the Medieval Europe saw ups and downs in forms of natural calamities and population explosion, the society was recovering from it slowly and steadily. The changes in the style of dressing moved from modest to aesthetic and beautiful.

By the 1400s, Europe had completely healed from its turbulences. This time saw a reign of hats. Men wore many types of hates and head gear. Just like women, the more ornate headgear was worn by aristocrats. Due to the burst in prosperity, the fabulous clothing that were once restricted for the royalty was also accessible to the merchant class.

With time, technology and trade advanced. Cities repopulated and nations grew. The feudal system was overthrown. Because of this, the kings became more powerful and covered lager areas. The Middle Ages or the Medieval Ages ended with the Fall of Rome and Western Europe. After this, Europe went into a period of cultural and artistic awakening, which is commonly known as Renaissance.

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