Men's Gothic Cotte Tunic

Men's Gothic Cotte Tunic with Contrasting Trim

Historical Context and Usage of the Garment

The cut of this cotte is based on European fashion of the 14th century (High to Late Gothic period). During this time, the cotte formed the absolute foundation of the male wardrobe across all social classes. It was usually worn over a linen undershirt. A very typical feature of the 14th century is the gradual narrowing of clothing to more closely follow the body's lines. For this reason, the sleeves from the elbow to the wrist are tailored tightly and fitted with lacing, which allowed them to be easily put on over the hands. The flared lower hem (the skirt part) then ensured the necessary freedom for walking or horseback riding. Contrasting colours and trimming served to demonstrate the wealth of the wearer.

Today, this garment is absolutely ideal for historical re-enactment, living history camps, LARP, or fantasy festivals. You can use it to portray a proud townsman, a skilled craftsman, or a member of the minor nobility.

Material and Its Benefits

The garment is precisely sewn from high-quality fustian (100% cotton). This is a strong, densely woven fabric with a gently brushed face side (sometimes called cotton velour), which visually and to the touch evokes luxurious velvet or expensive wool, yet is much easier to maintain. Fustian holds its shape excellently, is resistant to wear, and provides superb thermal comfort in cooler weather.

Technical Parameters

Care for Your Historical Garment

To ensure the cotte serves you reliably for a long time, it requires proper care. We recommend washing it in a washing machine on a gentle cycle at a maximum temperature of 30 °C (86 °F). Use mild detergents and avoid bleaches. Do not spin the fabric at unnecessarily high speeds, and under no circumstances should you use a tumble dryer, as this could cause shrinkage and irreversible damage to the cotton fibres. Dry the garment hanging freely on a coat hanger in a well-ventilated room. Ironing is best done from the reverse (inside) on a medium setting.

Cleaning and care of costumes

Safety Warnings

Since the garment is made of 100% cotton, exercise heightened caution near open flames (campfires, torches). Sparks can easily burn holes in the fabric. The cotte serves a purely aesthetic and civil function – it is not a padded gambeson. It provides absolutely no protection during contact historical fencing or combat sports (HEMA, buhurt).

Please note that any other accessories shown in the photographs (e.g., belt, footwear, weapons) are not included in the delivery.

Recommended Accessories

To achieve a flawless 14th-century look, we at Outfit4Events recommend pairing this cotte with period linen braies and split hose, a leather belt with a brass buckle, and hand-sewn leather turnshoes.

Customisation Options and Sizes

This Gothic cotte is crafted in other colours upon request, according to these fabric swatches. Please note your desired colour or colours 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 a fabric with a different composition is chosen, the price may change. Any potential price change will, of course, always be consulted with you before the order is processed.

The garment is available in standard sizes according to this size chart. Entirely without any surcharge, the garment is tailored exactly to your measurements. In that case, after completing your order, simply fill out this measurement chart.