14th c. Linen Backlaced Gown

Size Chart

Note: In our women’s clothes we’ve abandoned ‘standard’, modern sizing because it is far from standard, and tends to cause more confusion than provide accurate information. So, please judge your size by your chest and waist measurements. We do not give hip measurements because the gown flares dramatically at the hip and is so generously sized there that fit is not an issue at that point. A range of fit is given for each size because the lacings and placket in the back start at the top and extend to below the hip providing flexibility within each size as well as a near perfect fit to each individual within that size range. The gowns run long with a small train so that you can wear them in the authentic fashion of the period – trailing along the ground or hem it to your desired length.

Size 6 is available made-to-order only.

In the 14th century clothing moved away from simple variants of the tunic towards sleek, elegant lines that emphasized the human form. The basic woman’s gown of this era is elegant simplicity, naturally following the contours of the body, with a wide neckline – the height of 1300s daring! Our gown is based on contemporary artwork. We have retained all of the classic elements of the historical design: fitted sleeves extending down unto the hand, full skirts, and a wide, rounded neckline. The skirts run long with a small train so that you can wear them in the authentic fashion of the nobility – trailing along the ground – or you can hem it to your desired length. As was done in the 14th century, this gown can be worn alone, over an underdress or chemise or beneath a sideless surcoat or houppelande.

Since ladies are rarely depicted from behind in illuminations, the exact closure method for these gowns is unknown. We have chosen to use a simple, back-lacing method that was common in both earlier and later centuries. A range of fit is given for each size because the lacings and placket in the back start at the top and extend to below the hip, providing flexibility within each size as well a near perfect fit to each individual within that size range. The placket is designed so that, no matter how tight or how loose the dress is laced, you are always completely covered. Our standard lace is a natural color or you can get black for an additional charge.