Why Underwear?
In the medieval period, daily bathing was rare, and outer clothing was difficult and expensive to wash frequently. Undergarments served as a protective barrier, absorbing sweat and oils, and helping to keep the outer clothes clean for longer.
They also provided a layer of warmth during chilly Northern European winters, and reinforced social norms of modesty and propriety.
The Main Undergarments in 1386 Bruges
For Men: The Shirt and Braies
- The Shirt (Chemise): The principal piece of underwear for men was the shirt or chemise. Typically made of linen, it was a simple, loose-fitting garment that reached to the knees or mid-thigh, with long sleeves and a round or slit neckline. The shirt protected the skin and absorbed sweat, acting as a barrier between the body and rougher outer garments made of wool or heavier fabric.
- Braies: Men also wore braies—loose linen shorts or breeches—that extended to the knees or mid-thigh. Braies were tied around the waist with a drawstring or belt and provided modesty and comfort. For laborers and soldiers alike, braies offered freedom of movement.
These undergarments were often plain, with no decoration, as they were meant to be practical rather than display wealth. shutdown123