To look like a medieval princess, focus on capturing the elegance and regality of historical European nobility through specific garments, sophisticated accessories, and a graceful demeanor.
Essential Elements of Medieval Princess Attire
Achieving an authentic medieval princess look involves layers of carefully chosen garments and accessories that reflect the fashion of the period, typically ranging from the 11th to the 15th centuries.
The Gown: Foundation of the Look
The primary piece of any medieval princess ensemble is a long, flowing gown. These dresses were often made from rich fabrics like velvet, silk, or brocade for nobility, though simpler linens or wools were also common for daily wear.
Key features include:
- Long Sleeves: Often fitted, but sometimes with wide, decorative cuffs (like "trumpet sleeves") or hanging dagged sleeves.
- High Necklines: Common, though scoop necks or square necks were also seen, especially as the period progressed.
- Fitted Bodice: Leading into a full, flowing skirt that often trailed on the ground.
- Lacing or Buttons: Used for closure, often at the back or sides.
For an authentic touch, consider a dress that allows for layering, as medieval attire often involved an undershift (chemise) beneath the main gown. You can explore historical clothing patterns for inspiration.
Regal Accessories and Embellishments
Accessories are crucial for transforming a simple gown into a princess's regal attire. These items add status, beauty, and authenticity to your look.
Here are key accessories to include:
- A Cape: A flowing cape or cloak is an iconic medieval accessory, adding warmth, drama, and an air of mystery. It could be simple wool for travel or richly embroidered velvet for formal occasions.
- Medieval Shoes: Footwear typically consisted of soft leather slippers or ankle boots, often without distinct heels. They were designed for comfort and varied in style from simple to highly decorated.
- Medieval Princess Hat: Headwear was extremely important. Common styles include:
- Conical Hennin: A tall, cone-shaped hat often draped with a veil, popular in the late medieval period.
- Gable Hood: A butterfly-shaped or boxy hood.
- Cauls and Veils: Simple veils draped over the head or decorative netted cauls that held hair.
- Princess Jewelry: Adorn yourself with period-appropriate jewelry. This might include:
- Necklaces: Often simple chains with pendants, or elaborate torcs.
- Rings: Worn on multiple fingers, often featuring gemstones or intricate metalwork.
- Brooches: Used to fasten cloaks or decorate garments.
- Girdles/Belts: Often highly ornate, worn low on the hips, sometimes with attached purses or prayer beads.
- A Crown: While not every princess wore a crown daily, for a truly regal look, a circlet or a more elaborate crown is essential. These were typically made of gold or silver and often adorned with gemstones. You can find inspiration for historical crown designs.
- A Medieval Compact Mirror: A small, decorative mirror, possibly made from polished metal or within an ornate casing, adds a touch of personal elegance and practicality, reflecting the personal effects of the era.
Below is a table summarizing key elements and their function:
| Element | Description | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Gown | Long, flowing dress, often in rich fabrics, fitted bodice, full skirt. | Core attire, defines silhouette. |
| Cape | Floor-length garment, often hooded, of various materials. | Warmth, status, dramatic flair. |
| Medieval Shoes | Soft leather flats or ankle boots, simple or decorated. | Period-appropriate footwear, comfort. |
| Princess Hat | Hennin, gable hood, cauls, or elaborate veils. | Status symbol, modesty, fashion statement. |
| Princess Jewelry | Necklaces, rings, brooches, ornate belts with gems. | Wealth display, personal adornment. |
| Crown | Ornate headpiece, circlet or full crown, often with gemstones. | Symbol of royalty and power. |
| Compact Mirror | Small, ornate personal mirror. | Personal grooming, historical authenticity. |
Hair and Beauty
Medieval princesses typically wore their hair long, often braided or styled neatly and covered by headwear. Hair was rarely left completely unbound in public. For a historically inspired look, consider:
- Long, Braided Hair: Either simple braids or more elaborate plaits intertwined with ribbons or jewels.
- Natural Makeup: Makeup was minimal, if any. Focus on healthy, clear skin. A natural flush to the cheeks or a hint of berry stain on the lips would be appropriate.
Posture and Demeanor
Beyond clothing, embodying a medieval princess involves carrying yourself with grace and poise.
- Upright Posture: Stand tall with shoulders back.
- Gentle Movements: Avoid hurried or clumsy motions.
- Regal Presence: Cultivate an aura of quiet confidence and elegance.
By combining an authentic gown with these specific accessories and a refined bearing, you can effectively look like a medieval princess.
