Size Chart
Note: Sizing on our 14th century cotte is judged by chest size because it is meant to fit loosely in the waist and to be worn with a belt to complete the shape and look (as shown in our photos). The length given is that of the cotte unbelted.
Size | Max. Chest Measurement | Length (from shoulder) |
Small | 36″ / 91 cm | 39″ / 99 cm |
Medium | 40″ / 102 cm | 39″ / 99 cm |
Large | 46″ / 117 cm | 39″ / 99 cm |
XLarge | 52″ / 132 cm | 40″ / 102 cm |
XXL | 58″ / 157 cm | 40″ / 102 cm |
Size XXL is available as made-to-order only.
Silk Colors:
Brick Red, Black, Hunter Green, Royal Blue, Purple
Please don’t hesitate to email call or text us (708) 502-1937) with any questions about stock or availability.
About our 14th c. Cotte
In the 14th century clothing moved away from simple variants of the tunic towards sleek, elegant lines that emphasized the human form. Beginning mid-century, the man’s cotte made a particularly radical departure from earlier fashions. The new garment was shorter (mid-thigh to knee length) than the old surcotte or tunic, with a more fitted body and, for the first time, a full length, buttoned front closure. This new garment became popular with noble and townsman alike, remaining fashionable well into the 15th century, while also giving rise to the more extreme cotehardie.
Our cotte is based on contemporary artwork from a variety of sources. We have retained all of the classic elements of the historical design: long, full sleeves that taper at the wrists, a body that flares at the hips, and cast pewter buttons based on a contemporary pattern and arranged in a uniquely medieval placement. As was done in the 14th century, this cotte can be worn alone over a linen shirt, or beneath a houppelande. Revival cottes are available in linen – the ubiquitous fabric of medieval Europe -, wool, and raw silk for the man of means. All edges are finished or fully enclosed, improving both aesthetics and durability.
Drawing after a detail of a late 14th century illumination Walter de Hamuntesham Attacked by a Mob
Drawing Drawing after the Viconti Hours circa 1390 in The National Library, Florence , Italy
Drawing after an early 15th century Stained Glass Rondell in The Victoria and Albert Museum, London, England
Drawing after Maneville’s Travels circa 1414-1420 in The British Museum, London, England
Drawing after a detail in a late 14th c. manuscript circa 1395 in the British Museum, London, England
Drawing after The Grande Heures de Rohan circa 1415 in The Bibliotethque National Paris, France
Drawing after The Grande Heures de Rohan circa 1415 in The Bibliotethque National Paris, France
Drawing after a detail of the Bedford Hours circa 1423 in the British Museum, London, England
Left: This Lady is bedecked in the most sumptuous color of the era. Her purple silk Backlaced Gown is accented with Tippets, Barbette, and linen Veil She’s pinned in place. Beneath she conceals her Chemise, Stockings, and Turnshoes. She finishes her look with a red leather Decorated Belt.
Right: This Lord Chooses a black/red theme with his black silk Cotte, and his red silk Chauses and Hood. He closes his hood with a lavish Badge. To complete his look he wears Ankle Boots, Decorated Belt, and Pouch.
Benjamin (verified owner) –
The Silk Cotte is excellent. It fits wonderfully and has full range of motion when I walk or spar with it.