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How to Create Medieval Bailiff Costumes

Clothing in Europe's medieval period served the purpose of distinguishing a person's level of wealth and role in society. Peasants were restricted to simple, rough clothing, while noblemen wore more elaborate and fashionable garments. A bailiff in medieval times was often a peasant who was given the authority to enforce the laws. His clothes were of a similar style to peasant garb, but they were also made of higher-quality material. Assembling a bailiff costume today can be accomplished by rummaging through your closet or a thrift store's racks

Things You'll Need

  • Tights or wool trousers
  • Snug long-sleeved shirt
  • Oversize, long-sleeved, button-up shirt
  • Leather belt
  • Pouch
  • Yarn
  • Knife sheath
  • Leather work boots
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Instructions

    • 1

      Put on the tights or wool trousers. Either of these articles of clothing should be in a conservative, neutral color.

    • 2

      Put on the snug long-sleeved shirt. This shirt should be a muted color and not too vibrant.

    • 3

      Add the oversize, long-sleeved, button-up shirt over the first shirt. This shirt should hang down close to the knees. Push the sleeves back over the wrist to make the first shirt slightly visible and add bulk to the rest of the arm. Button all but the top and bottom few buttons. Choose a solid color for this shirt that is brighter than the other clothing articles.

    • 4

      Slip the knife sheath and pouch onto the leather belt. Tie yarn onto part of the pouch or any of its components, and then knot the yarn onto the belt if the pouch cannot be added on directly.

    • 5

      Add the belt on top of all the other layers of clothing. Move the sheath and pouch so that they are at one side of the front of your body. Tug out the bottom portion of the button-up shirt so that it spreads out from the body under the belt.

    • 6

      Complete the costume by putting on a pair of leather work boots.

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