Homemade Medieval Gypsy Costume

Medieval gypsies wore clothing influenced by Eastern styles.

The medieval gypsy is much different than the traditional gypsy that often comes to mind. The classic peasant garb adorned with garish jewelry is a look that the gypsies did not receive until nearly the 20th century. In medieval times, most gypsies dressed similarly to other people in the medieval period. According to the book "The Gypsies" by Angus Fraser, most of the gypsies migrated through India and the Middle East before settling in Romania, and many of their styles were influenced by the Eastern clothing styles of the day.

Bottoms

Medieval gypsies dressed similarly to other people during the medieval era. Men wore tight breeches on their legs, and women wore long, flowing skirts that reached to the ankle or floor. Usually, the fabric was a coarse, due to the gypsies' low level of income. For a costume, choose leggings for men and a maxi skirt for women.

Tops

A blouse with long, flowing sleeves and a high neck was typical shirt style for medieval gypsy woman. Over the blouse, she would wear a draped scarf, wrapped around the body and pinned over one shoulder with a brooch. Men wore similar-looking blouses, but skipped the shawl. A long-sleeved Spanish-style blouse is ideal for a Gypsy costume.

Head Covering

Gypsy women during the medieval period wore a turban-like band of cloth around their heads, and wore their hair in a loose bun or braid. To create this look, tie a piece of fabric around your head turban-style. Gypsy men wore typical medieval hats, such as a Robin Hood-style hat, or turbans. You can wear either style when creating a gypsy costume.

Accessories

The accessories that medieval gypsies wore were surprisingly few compared to the typical interpretation of the gypsy style of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Women sometimes wore narrow ribbons tied around the neck; the pin holding the shawl in place was one of the only other accessories. Women wore low, sturdy shoes. Men wore high boots, just like other medieval men of the day. For a woman's costume, wear ballet flats or other low shoes. Men should wear knee-high boots or socks that simulate the boot look.

References

• "The Gypsies;" Angus Fraser; 1992
• Willo Fyre: Medieval Period Romani (Gypsy) Garb
• Fortune City: A Basic Guide to Period Gypsy Garb for Renaissance Fairs