A Simple Origin: The Skirt as Protection
Medieval and period skirts. Courtesan, elegant, peasant or innkeeper skirts. Both men and women have used this garment to protect themselves against the cold and inclement weather, the main function of clothing before becoming an item to adorn the body. Initially, the skirt was just a square of fabric with holes in it and held with a rope at the waist or chest.
The Diversification of Skirts in Antiquity
But during the time of the Sumerians, Assyrians and Egyptians, certain differences were already created. The Egyptians, for example, created pleats and men wore them to the knee, while women wore them to the ankle, fitted to the waist and with straps.
The Roman Influence: Knee Length Skirts
During the Roman Empire, Emperor Constantine began wearing the knee-length skirt, made of wide leather straps and edges, making it common wear among all Roman soldiers.
Scottish Heritage: Plaid Skirts and Bright Colors
The Scots wore the most recognized skirt throughout the world. Its use, over time, has been extrapolated and adapted to the female gender, making models of short and knee-length skirts, with dark and wide squares or bright colors.
The Transformation into an Exclusively Feminine Garment
Later the use of the skirt began to be exclusive to women because it was a comfortable garment that allowed free movement of the legs. It is then when the skirt begins to transform according to historical moments, trends and women's needs.
The Medieval Era: High Waist Skirts and Heavy Fabrics
In medieval times, the skirt was very high-waisted, practically starting just below the bust and reaching to the ankles or the floor. It was made of heavy, dark fabrics.
The Renaissance and Transformation of the Skirt
During the Renaissance era, it was transformed a little, becoming a kind of tunic that had an empire cut and went from the shoulders to the feet. Being one piece, it was considered more of a dress, so the skirt was left to the side.
The Rise of Puffy Skirts: 17th and 18th Centuries
But the skirt was taken up again in the 17th century and until the 18th century, a period in which it began to be used with a crinoline underneath and a series of hoops sewn to it, which made it look wide and bulky, so that the waist The woman looked extremely thin. It was also used with a bustle, that is, a metal structure that made it look domed in the posterior area.
The Period of the "Guarda Infantes" and the Decorative Details
Another variant was to use it with this type of metal structures, but on the sides of the hip, called “guardinfant” due to the great width it provided to the skirt. In those centuries the skirts had many details and ornaments, mainly on the back.
- What was the original function of skirts?
Initially, skirts were worn to protect against cold and inclement weather. - What difference did the era of the Sumerians, Assyrians and Egyptians make in the history of skirts?
At that time, differences were created in the design of skirts, such as pleats and lengths according to gender. - How did Emperor Constantine influence the use of skirts?
Constantine popularized knee-length skirts among Roman soldiers. - What characterizes kilts?
Kilts are known for their checks and bright colors. - In what historical period did skirts become full with the use of crinolines and bustles?
In the 17th and 18th centuries, skirts were worn with crinolines and bustles, giving them a full, streamlined look. - Why did skirts become an exclusively feminine garment?
The skirt became exclusive to women due to its comfort and freedom of movement it offered.
Explore more about the fascinating evolution of skirts throughout history and their impact on women's fashion. Interested in discovering more about period fashion and skirts? Explore our catalog of medieval and period skirts and find your unique style!
