So, you want to dress like the Norse? Then you’ve come to the right place, where we’ve been supplying all your barley farming, monastery raiding, wedding feasting outfit needs since 801.
If you are one inclined to trousers and beards, let’s get started so you can look your “Vikingest,” and not like those gross Saxons who haven’t taken a bath since the fall of Rome.
Clothing for Men:
The rooster has crowed and it’s time to start feeding your chickens and cattle! Once you’ve combed your hair, you’re going to want to slip on your undertunic. Now, this can be any plain, long shirt made from linen. Once you’ve got that on, choose your favorite overtunic, or kyrtill.
The best tunic will be made of heavy wool to beat the cold winds as you’re out on your longship. You’ll also want to choose one that has fitted sleeves made perfectly for freedom of movement, and the length of the tunic should hit your knees. And, if you can afford it, don’t underestimate the power of some good, colorful embroidery or “braid” on those hemlines!
Once you’ve got your tunic pulled on, fasten a good belt around your waist. You’ll love how it brings the look all together, and is perfect for holding knives and pouches and whatever you may need to stab your neighbor and take his land after that incredibly rude insult he said to you last night.
Wait! Not so fast, don’t forget your trousers! Here is where you get to have a bit more fun choosing a style, such as loose or tight fitting (oh ‘la ‘la!). Sorry, pockets have not yet been invented, so you will have to carry all your belongings best you can on your belt.
Now you’ve got on your trousers, grab your best leg wraps (wool strips of cloth), and wind them around your bottom legs and your feet. Again, you’re going to be thankful once it starts to snow. Then slip on your best leather shoes, grab your thickest cloak, and you’re good to go!
Clothing for Women:
But what if you prefer a dress and some fantastic beadwork? (1 out of 1 trickster gods —and occasionally Thor—do).
You’re going to want to look your best when you tell your husband the news that you’re divorcing him. He was a complete coward for not accepting that duel at the feast, and you deserve better. (Remember, divorcing him is your right as a Norse woman.)
Grab your linen shift, and make sure it hits right at the ankle. Follow that by picking out your favorite dress (an apron skirt style, or hangerock) made from wool and pull that over your shift. The best hangerock’s will be shorter than your shift, because we want to show off those beautiful colors you spent all that time on dying your linen.
Be sure to secure the shoulder straps with a pair of brooches, the more ornate the better! And if you really want to kick up your fashion game, you can string colorful beads (glass is highly desirable) between the brooches. This jewelry not only looks divine, but is also multipurpose, because once again, pockets have not yet been invented. You can use your brooches, and hang whatever small items you need through the day, such as knives or keys.
Don’t forget to top off the look with a headdress, such as a kerchief you can knot. We don’t want all that hair to get in the way of your screaming as you tell Ivar exactly what you think of him, and how his cowardice is unbefitting any Norse husband!
Hair and Hygiene:
Ok, you now know the basics and are totally rocking that cloak and those amber beads, but what about your hair? What about your personal bath time routine? What is a Viking to do?
Don’t fret! I’ve got you covered.
One of the main things you’re going want to have with you at all times is a comb, and you’re going to comb your hair every day. Bonus, combs also help keep those beards tidy and clean.
Again, we can’t look like those filthy Saxons. (*Whispering* Did you hear that the Saxons only bathe a few times a year? Scandalous!)
Once you’re done with your weekly bath thanks to all those waterfalls and hot springs, you can maintain your hygiene by keeping those ears clean with ear spoons, and prettying up those well-groomed beards with beads. Another fun thing to try to get those locks of yours in shape is to bleach your hair. Come on, all the cool Vikings are doing it.
Conclusion and Further References:
I hope you’ve found this instruction somewhat helpful on your journey to looking your sharpest in the cold Scandinavian North! Now you’re ready to dress like the Norse, and are ready to farm, feast, and conquer England (and maybe even Paris, if the weather is nice)!
AND…if you want to learn even more about Norse/Viking clothing with FAR better photo details than I can provide here (because this author is terrified of breaking any copyright laws), you can find some excellent examples at these two websites: