Student Essay on Clothing in the Middle Ages

The Middle Ages first brought about the perception of fashion and gave birth to the tailoring industry. Medieval trends brought new styles, fabrics, and materials that transformed clothing beyond the rough, shapeless forms that merely fulfilled the needs of warmth and protection. Men's clothing of the time included trousers, leggings or garters, shoes, tunics, and hoods, while women's clothing included jewelry, beautiful flowing dresses, sometimes an underdress, and very elaborate headwear.

CLOTHING IN THE MIDDLE AGES

It wasn't until the Middle Ages that fashion as a perception, and the tailoring industry, was born. Previous to this time, clothing styles and cuts were not very diverse between the classes and between men and women. These clothes were often rough and shapeless, but completed their function of warmth. Medieval trends brought new styles, fabrics and materials. "Fabric was very valuable, despite whether or not it was home-made or an imported one." ("Medieval Clothing") In fact, it was so important and pricey that people used the articles of clothing all the way to the end of the garment's life. Old parts that were still strong and looked nice were sewn together to get their full use. Also, "buttons were first used in the 14th century", ("Medieval Clothing") but usually only for.....