Materials:
* Linen: The most common fabric for all social classes, especially in the early Middle Ages. It was cool, absorbent, and relatively inexpensive.
* Wool: More common for the wealthy or for winter wear. Wool was warm and durable but more expensive.
* Silk: An extremely luxurious fabric, reserved for the very wealthy and royalty.
* Leather: Used for shoes, belts, and some items of clothing, especially for practical reasons.
Construction:
* Hand-woven and sewn: Most fabrics were hand-woven on simple looms. Clothes were then sewn by hand using a variety of stitches.
* Simple cuts: Medieval clothing tended to be simpler in construction than later periods.
* Layers: Even in warmer weather, children wore several layers of clothing for warmth and protection.
* No buttons or zippers: Clothing was held together with ties, laces, or pins.
Specific Garments:
* Tunics: The most common garment for both boys and girls. These were long, loose shirts that reached to the knees or ankles. They were typically worn with a belt.
* Shirts: Linen shirts were worn underneath tunics for warmth and comfort.
* Breeches/Knickers: Boys wore breeches or knickers, which were trousers that reached to the knee.
* Robes: Wealthier children might wear robes over their tunics, often in colorful fabrics.
* Hooded cloaks: Cloaks were worn for warmth and protection from the elements.
* Headwear: Children might wear simple caps, hoods, or veils.
Variations:
* Social Class: The wealthier the family, the more elaborate and expensive the clothing.
* Region: Different regions had their own styles and fashions.
* Age: Clothing styles varied for infants, toddlers, and older children.
Important Notes:
* Limited color choices: Dyes were expensive, so most clothing was in natural colors like white, brown, or gray.
* Practicality: Medieval children's clothing was designed to be durable and easy to care for.
* Symbolism: Clothing could also be used to symbolize social status, family ties, and even religious beliefs.
It's important to remember that our understanding of medieval clothing for children is based on limited surviving evidence. However, through archaeological finds and artwork, we can get a glimpse into the lives of these children and the way they dressed.