Late Gothic German Brocade Gown of Nuremberg Patrician circa 1450

Late Gothic German Brocade Gown of Nuremberg Patrician circa 1450

Historical Context and the Elegance of German Gothic Fashion

This opulent gentleman's suit corresponds in cut and style to the Late Gothic period, specifically the mid-15th century (circa 1450), and is rooted in the region of Germany (The Holy Roman Empire). This was an era of unprecedented prosperity for wealthy imperial cities such as Nuremberg, Augsburg, and Cologne, marking the rise of the powerful urban oligarchy known as the patricians. These wealthy merchants and international traders possessed fortunes that often rivalled the old feudal nobility, a fact they boldly demonstrated through their lavish attire. This specific style of dress was reserved for the highest echelons of urban society, including city council members, mayors, and wealthy guild masters. It was worn during prestigious civil occasions, town council assemblies, aristocratic weddings, religious processions, or formal audiences with imperial princes.

Design Features, Components, and Dressing Sequence

The costume is designed as a fully integrated, color-coordinated three-piece set. The primary base layer consists of a long gown or tunic (historically a doublet-cotehardie variation or sukanec), which is tailored from premium true velvet (100% cotton) in a rich, warm brown tone. The tunic features long, narrow sleeves and an adjustable split neckline with functional tie lacing. The front placket is bordered with decorative gold braid. The bottom hem of the tunic is trimmed with dense faux fur, highlighting the fine pleating at the low waistline.

Over this velvet tunic, the magnificent outer cloak is layered, tailored from luxurious pale-yellow brocade featuring an intricately woven historical damask pattern. The cloak is fully trimmed with plush faux fur along the front lapels and bottom hem and features a wide, dramatic fur collar. A highly distinct feature is the long hanging sleeves, which are slit at the elbow level. The wearer's arms pass through these openings, allowing the rest of the long sleeves (historically known as tippets or "pachy") to hang freely down the sides, a classic symbol of high status indicating the wearer does not perform manual labor.

The entire composition is crowned by the matching chaperon hat, crafted from the identical yellow brocade fabric and finished with a wide, thick brim of dense faux fur. The anatomical draping and the elegant hanging liripipe tail of the hat are captured in close detail.

When dressing, we recommend the following sequence: first, put on your tight-fitting period hosen (tights) and historical footwear. Next, don the brown velvet tunic and secure the lacing at the neck comfortably. Then, layer the outer brocade cloak over your shoulders and pass your arms through the elbow slits. Finally, place the chaperon hat on your head so that the fur brim rests comfortably on your forehead and the hanging tail drapes slightly to the side or back.

Technical Specifications and Fabric Composition

The choice of textiles combines a historically accurate weight and drape with modern durability. The true 100% cotton velvet provides excellent breathability, while the brocade with integrated metallic fibers adds a luxurious shimmer that highlights the wearer’s status. The high-quality faux fur perfectly replicates natural winter fur but remains significantly easier to clean and maintain.

Please note that additional garments and accessories shown in the photographs – specifically the lower tights/hosen, leather boots, belt, gloves, and jewelry (necklace with cross) – are not included in the standard package and must be purchased separately.

Care and Maintenance Instructions

Due to the presence of metallic threads in the brocade and the delicate nature of the cotton velvet pile, this costume requires specialized care. We strongly recommend professional dry cleaning only at a trusted facility. Never machine wash or tumble dry this garment. If minor surface dirt accumulates on the faux fur or velvet (such as dust or dry mud from a festival), allow the fabric to dry completely and then gently brush it away using a soft clothes brush. Ironing must be done strictly from the reverse side at a very low temperature (silk setting, max. 110°C / 230°F) through a clean cotton pressing cloth. For the fur-trimmed areas, completely avoid any contact with the hot iron plate, as the synthetic fibers will melt instantly. The safest method to remove creases is using a garment steamer from a safe distance without direct fabric contact.

Safety Guidelines and Wearer Advice for Events and LARP

This gown is an exceptional choice for living history, costume balls, and LARP events, but please remain mindful of basic safety guidelines. The fabrics used are not treated with flame-retardant chemicals. We strongly warn you against moving close to open campfires, forge hearths, or ballroom candles. The faux fur (100% PAD) and the brocade containing synthetic fibers are highly flammable. Upon contact with a stray spark, the fibers will melt instantly and can cause severe burns. Exercise extra caution regarding the long hanging sleeves (tippets) of the cloak, which can easily snag on surrounding objects, knock over cups, or inadvertently come into contact with flames. This costume is designed for civil, representative purposes and is not constructed for acrobatic stunts or full-contact HEMA fencing.

Recommended Accessories for Your Renaissance Collection

To achieve a completely flawless and historically accurate appearance of a wealthy fifteenth-century citizen, we recommend pairing this costume with tight-fitting woolen hosen or split breeches from the mid-15th century. A heavy Gothic leather belt with cast brass fittings and an opulent patrician livery chain will round out the aristocratic impression beautifully, echoing the splendor of your new brocade cloak.

The Late Gothic German Brocade Gown of Nuremberg Patrician can be made in various colors according to these sample cards. Please note the requested color(s) into your order, in the field for your comment. Please specify always (1) the number of the sample card, (2) letter of the color, and (3) description of the colour (Example: 04-F-blue). If you choose a fabric with different composition, the price may change. Possible price change will be consulted with you before processing the order.

The Late Gothic German Brocade Gown of Nuremberg Patrician will be made exactly to your measure. Please fill in this measurement chart after finishing your order.

Information about cleaning and care.