15th Century Gothic Hose (Schmalzhose) with Codpiece and Laces

15th Century Gothic Hose (Schmalzhose) with Codpiece and Laces

Appearance and Cut of the Hose

These Gothic hose feature a high waist, which in times past was often attached to a doublet or gambeson using laces or "points." The front is adorned with a distinct, separately tied codpiece, which is not only functional but also a typical fashion element of its era. The hose have a close fit through the thighs, tapering slightly towards the ankles. The legs are finished with practical stirrups (foot straps) that ensure the hose remain taut and do not bunch up inside your shoes. At the back of the waistband, there is lacing for individual size adjustment for maximum comfort. Details such as the visible laces for attaching the codpiece and at the waist underscore the authenticity of this garment.

How Can You Use This Hose?

These medieval hose are an ideal choice for:

• Historical Reenactment: Complete your 15th-century costume with an authentic piece of clothing.
• LARP (Live Action Role Play): Immerse yourself in your character as a nobleman, knight, or townsman.
• Theatrical Performances and Film Shoots: Add historical accuracy to your production.
• Historical Festivals and Markets: Become part of the atmosphere in period attire.
• Themed Parties and Balls: Impress others with an original and elaborate garment.

Historical Background and Interesting Facts

In the 15th century, men's clothing underwent significant changes. Hose (referred to in various languages, and as "Schmalzhose" in German for their narrower cut) became an integral part of the male wardrobe. Originally, hose were often two separate leg coverings tied to a belt or undergarments (braies). Over time, they merged into a single garment and were attached to the upper garment, such as a short doublet or gambeson, with points. The codpiece (German: "Latz" or "Schamkapsel") evolved from a simple gusset of fabric covering the crotch into a conspicuous, sometimes extravagantly decorated, feature. Initially more practical, during the 15th and especially the 16th centuries, it also became an expression of masculinity and a fashion statement, often padded and adorned.

Interestingly, it was in the 15th century, with the development of shorter doublets and tunics, that the legs and their shape came to the forefront of men's fashion. Close-fitting hose emphasized the silhouette, and well-clad legs were considered a sign of elegance and social standing.

Material and Colour Options

Choose the material that best suits you and your ideas of historical authenticity and comfort:

• Fustian: A strong and durable cotton fabric (often a blend with linen) with a fine nap, resembling suede. A great choice for durability and a period look. (Original option: Dyftýn)
• Velvet: A luxurious material with a short, dense pile that will add richness and grandeur to your costume.
• Linen: A breathable and strong natural material, ideal for warmer weather and for those who prefer maximum historical accuracy for everyday garments.
• Wool: A traditional material for historical clothing, providing warmth and an authentic look. Suitable for colder days.

We offer these hose as standard in colours such as beige, black, and brown. However, upon request, we are happy to make them for you in other colours according to our current fabric swatches. Please specify your desired colour or colour combination in the comments field of your order (always state (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, which we will discuss with you before processing your order.

Size Selection

The hose are available in standard sizes S, M, L, XL, and XXL according to our size chart. For a perfect fit, we will make them to your exact measurements at no extra charge. In this case, after completing your order, please fill in measurements 8e-8L in our measurement chart.

Product Care

To ensure your Gothic hose retain their beauty and longevity, please give them proper care:

• Washing: We recommend hand washing or a very gentle machine wash cycle (max 30°C or 86°F), especially for wool and velvet. For linen and fustian, gentle machine washing is possible. Always use mild detergents suitable for the specific material.
• Drying: Do not tumble dry! Ideally, dry the hose flat or hung in the shade to prevent colours from fading and to avoid deformation. Dry wool garments exclusively flat.
• Ironing: Iron according to the material type, usually at a low to medium temperature and preferably on the reverse side. We recommend steaming velvet rather than ironing it directly to avoid damaging the pile. Linen can tolerate a higher temperature and is best ironed while still slightly damp.
• Storage: Store in a dry, dark place, ideally hung on a hanger or folded to prevent creasing. Use natural moth repellents such as lavender or cedarwood, especially for wool.

You can find more detailed information in our cleaning and maintenance instructions.

These medieval trousers with codpiece 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.

These medieval trousers with codpiece  are available in standard sizes or can be made exactly to your measure at no additional charge. In the latter case please fill in data 8e-8L in this measurement chart after finishing your order.

Information about cleaning and care.