The British History Podcast 54 – What Not To Wear: In The Dark Ages
Sep 14, 2012
Debunking stereotypes about Dark Ages clothing, difficulties in studying Anglo-Saxon fashion, reliance on wool, tanning leather in unpleasant conditions, and fashion trends in Anglo-Saxon society.
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Other Fabrics and Rarity
- Hemp was used, but less common than wool or linen.
- Cotton and silk were rare, indicating wealth and trade connections.
The Purpose of Fur
- Fur, primarily used for warmth, was likely worn as lining in garments.
- The practice of showing off fur likely led to fur trim on hems.
Leather Tanning: A Smelly Business
- Leather production involved smelly processes using urine and other caustic substances.
- This unpleasant work was done in separate buildings away from the population.