Welsh Longbowman Costume of Crécy

Medieval Welsh Longbowman Costume of Crécy in Blue-White Mi-Parti

Historical Context and Usage

Around 1346, in the early phases of the Hundred Years' War, Welsh longbowmen formed the deadly backbone of the English army. Their massive longbows could pierce the previously impenetrable French knightly plate armour. The typical attire of these common but highly valued soldiers was a long, practical tunic gathered at the waist with a leather belt, and a hood (chaperon) protecting the shoulders and head from the harsh island weather. A significant fashion element of the 14th century was the hood drawn out into a very long tail, known as a liripipe. The combination of two contrasting colours, known as mi-parti, was extremely popular throughout Europe during the High and Late Middle Ages and often represented the heraldic colours of the lord or city the soldier served.

Today, this garment is perfectly suited for medieval battle reenactments, fantasy or historical LARPs, or as a stylish outfit for archery tournaments. However, please remember that this is standard textile clothing, not protective armour (it is not a padded gambeson). If you plan to engage in contact fencing or heavy combat clashes, it is essential for your safety to wear hidden modern protectors or a padded jacket underneath the costume. Never use this garment as your sole body protection against weapon strikes.

Material and Proper Care

The costume is tailored from durable and soft-to-the-touch duvetyn (100% cotton). This fabric has a special brushed finish that beautifully imitates the look and feel of velvet. The edge of the blue half of the cape is elegantly cut into leaf shapes (known as dagging), adding a highly authentic period touch to the garment.

• Washing: The garment can be washed very gently by hand or in a washing machine on a delicate cycle at a maximum temperature of 30 °C (86 °F).
• Drying: Never dry the garment in a tumble dryer and avoid using aggressive bleach to prevent the bold colours from fading.
• Ironing: Ironing is recommended only on the reverse side on a low to medium heat setting.
• Cleaning and care of costumes

The photographs show additional period equipment, such as a longbow, a leather quiver with arrows, leather gloves, a belt with a sword, and historical leather shoes. These accessories are not included in the delivery. However, we highly recommend completing your archery set with a high-quality leather back quiver and a sturdy bracer from our selection, which will create a perfect and fully functional outfit together with the costume.

Product Specifications

This Welsh longbowman costume is also manufactured in other colour combinations upon request, according to our fabric swatches. Simply note your desired colour in your order in the comments field (please always state the swatch number, the colour letter, and its name, e.g., 03-A-Yellow). If a fabric with a different composition is selected, any potential price adjustment is always consulted with you before the order is processed.

The garment is available in standard sizes, or it is custom-tailored exactly to your measurements at no extra charge. For custom tailoring, simply fill out our measurement chart carefully after completing your order. For this specific product, measurement points 8a, 8c, 8d, 8e, 8q, 8r, and 8x will be perfectly sufficient.