Festive Medieval Gown of a French Noblewoman

Festive Medieval Gown of a French Noblewoman with Crown

Historical Context and Usage

The historical basis for this garment dates back to the 14th century, predominantly in Western and Central Europe (France, Holy Roman Empire). During this time, the fashion of layering became established. The foundation was the so-called cotte (an underdress with long, tight-fitting sleeves), over which noble ladies wore a surcoat (an overdress). In the 14th century, surcoats began to feature deeply cut armholes, which contemporary moralists dubbed "windows of hell" because they revealed the lady's tightly laced waist. A richly draped veil (often called a wimple or gorget) combined with a crown was a clear sign of a married, high-ranking noblewoman. The dress is decorated with the fleur-de-lis motif, strongly referencing the French royal court.

Today, this Medieval dress is absolutely ideal for historical festivals, LARP, theatrical performances, period banquets, or cosplay. Due to the modern fabric composition, it is not a strict purist reconstruction (living history), but a highly aesthetic and practical costume for leisure activities.

Materials and Their Benefits

The dress is made from a carefully selected combination of materials that combine historical appearance with modern comfort:

• Satin (95% polyester, 5% elastane): Used for the under-cotte. It offers a beautiful, noble sheen imitating expensive silk. The addition of elastane ensures the tight sleeves adapt to the shape of your arm and do not restrict your movement.
• 100% Cotton: Provides basic breathability and structural stability to the garment.
• Faux Fur (100% polyamide): Decorates the over-surcoat. Historically, this would have been expensive ermine fur. By using synthetic fibres, we achieve a luxurious look entirely without animal cruelty.
• Cleaning and care of costumes

Parameters and Specifications

Care Instructions

To ensure your dress remains like new for as long as possible, it requires proper care. We highly recommend hand washing in lukewarm water (max. 30 °C / 86 °F) using a mild detergent. Never wring the garment; simply press the water out gently. Dry it laid flat, never in a tumble dryer. You may carefully iron the satin parts inside out on the lowest setting. Never iron the faux fur parts; the fibres would irrevocably melt! Once dry, simply brush the fur gently.

Safety Warnings

Because the costume contains synthetic fibres (polyester, polyamide), never get close to open flames (campfires, torches, fireplaces) while wearing it. Synthetic materials are highly flammable and can cause severe burns if they melt. The garment is also not designed as a protective layer for fencing practice.

Please note that any other accessories shown in the photos (e.g., footwear, jewellery) are not included in the delivery unless explicitly stated in the parameter table.

Recommended Accessories

With this breathtaking gown, we recommend acquiring period leather shoes and a finely decorated brass belt, which should correspond to the courtly fashion of the mid-14th century.

Customisation Options and Sizes

We can make this festive gown for you in other colours upon request, according to these fabric swatches. Please note the desired colour(s) in the comment box of your order. Always include (1) the swatch number, (2) the colour letter, and (3) the colour name (e.g., 03-A-Yellow). If you choose a fabric with a different composition, the price may change. We at Outfit4Events will always consult any price changes with you in advance.

The garment is available in standard sizes according to this chart. However, we will tailor it exactly to your measurements at no extra charge. In that case, after completing your order, please fill out this measurement chart.