Women's High Gothic Velvet Dress

Women's High Gothic Velvet Dress with Surcoat and Cap

Historical Context and Garment Details

This richly layered costume is based on European court fashion from the High Gothic period, roughly the 13th and 14th centuries. During this era, noblewomen wore outfits consisting of several layers, which clearly declared their high social standing and wealth. The foundation of this set is the underdress, known as the cotte, which features long, narrow sleeves made of genuine velvet. Over this, the outer garment is worn in the form of a luxurious surcoat. This surcoat is equipped with striking lacing on the sides, allowing for a perfect, tailored fit to the figure. Its long, pointed sleeves fall freely, creating an unmistakable historical silhouette.

The overall look is completed by a majestic velvet cap combined with a light veil. In the Middle Ages, covered hair and a veiled neck were a sign of the honour and dignity, typically of a married woman. The garment is masterfully crafted from 100% cotton velvet and high-quality satin fabric with a touch of elastane for maximum freedom of movement.

Gothic Dress Parameters

Available Sizes and Custom Tailoring

This velvet Gothic dress is available as standard in ready-to-wear sizes according to this size chart. Without any surcharge, the garment is custom-tailored exactly to your body measurements. In this case, please carefully fill out the measurement chart after completing your order. Upon request, the dress is also manufactured in other colour combinations according to these fabric swatches. The desired colour (swatch number, letter, and colour name) should be noted in the order comments.

Costume Care and Safety Warnings

My lady, to ensure your new robe lasts for many years in perfect condition, give it the proper care and follow the cleaning and maintenance instructions. As the garment is made of genuine cotton velvet and satin, professional dry cleaning is strongly recommended. Never wash the dress in a washing machine or tumble dry it, as this could cause the fabrics to shrink and irreversibly damage the velvet pile. Ironing must be done only from the reverse side on a very low heat setting. When wearing the dress with long, flowing pointed sleeves and a loose veil, exercise extreme caution when walking up or down stairs and especially near open flames to prevent the fabric from catching fire unintentionally.

Recommended Accessories

To achieve an absolutely authentic Gothic look, it is advisable to complement the dress with period leather footwear—ideally the typical Gothic pointed shoes known as poulaines. Fine historical jewellery will also suit you perfectly. Please note that the jewellery and rings shown in the illustrative photographs are not included in the delivery of this set.