Late Medieval Women's Hood with Liripipe and Brass Buttons, 15th Century Model, Red

Late Medieval Women's Hood with Liripipe and Brass Buttons, 15th Century Model, Red

This hood impresses with its authentic craftsmanship and meticulous details. It is sewn from a sturdy wool fabric in a rich red hue, giving it an expressive and noble appearance. A distinctive feature is the functional button placket with a row of decorative brass buttons, running from the chin to the décolletage. This closure allows the hood to be worn securely fastened for protection against the cold, or more casually open for a fashionable effect. The inside is fully lined with a soft fabric, enhancing wearing comfort, especially when the hood is down. An integral part is the long, slender tail, known as a liripipe or cornette, which was a very fashionable and characteristic element in the 15th century.

Occasions for Wear

This women's hood is the perfect choice for any event themed around the 15th century and the Late Middle Ages. It enlivens your costume at historical festivals, town markets, LARP games, or during reenactment. It provides not only a historically accurate look but also practical protection for the head and shoulders from sun, wind, or cold after dark. Thanks to its elegant appearance and high-quality craftsmanship, you can proudly wear it as part of the attire of a townswoman, noblewoman, or even a wealthier peasant woman who appreciates detail.

Historical Context and Origin

Hoods of this type, sometimes referred to in French as a 'chaperon', were among the most common and varied head coverings for women in the 15th century. Our reconstruction is based on iconographic sources such as contemporary French and English paintings, as well as archaeological finds of textile fragments, for example, from London during this period. Close-fitting hoods with button closures and liripipes of various lengths enjoyed widespread popularity across different social strata – from villagers and townspeople to members of the nobility. Although primarily a women's fashion accessory, some variations were occasionally worn by men.

Interesting Fact: The Social Significance of the Hood

In the Middle Ages, wearing a hood or other head covering held deep social and symbolic significance for women. Covering the hair was considered the standard, a virtue, and a sign of respectability for married or adult women. An uncovered head in public could be interpreted as a sign of shamelessness or low social status. The forcible removal of a hood from a respectable woman's head in public, especially by a strange man, was therefore perceived as a very serious insult to her honour and the family's good name, and could easily escalate into a street brawl or lead to legal action.

Material and Its Properties

The hood is crafted from 100% wool. This is a high-quality, relatively thick, and densely woven wool fabric (the manufacturer states this "beautiful wool fabric is heavier & more durable than medium-weight thinner wool fabric"), which is very robust, durable, and holds its shape well. Compared to cotton or linen, wool is more resistant to soiling, possesses natural water-repellent properties (to a certain extent), and exhibits excellent thermoregulatory capabilities – it provides warmth even when slightly damp and is simultaneously breathable.

Size and Fit

This women's hood is available in a universal size, designed with a form-fitting cut intended for a 'lady's size' that comfortably fits most adult women's heads (typically, this model is not suitable for a male face). Thanks to the full and high-quality lining, it looks very neat and presentable, even when worn with the hood down, casually draped over the shoulders, or with a few buttons undone for a more relaxed yet still elegant look.

How to Care for Your Hood

To keep your wool hood beautiful and in good condition for as long as possible, please follow these care instructions:

• Washing: If necessary, wash very carefully and exclusively in cold water. Hand washing with a special wool detergent is ideal. If using a washing machine, select the most gentle wool cycle and wash with minimal spin. Wash only with textiles of similar colours to avoid any potential colour transfer.
• Drying: NEVER tumble dry! Dry flat, for example, on a clean towel or drying rack, away from direct sunlight and intense heat sources.
• Ironing: If necessary, the hood can be ironed on the lowest setting (wool setting), ideally through a damp cotton cloth or using a steam iron.

Additional Information

This is a high-quality product from the Mythrojan® brand, which specialises in historically inspired clothing and accessories. The delivery includes one red wool hood with brass buttons. Other clothing and accessories shown in the photos are not included and are available separately.