Viking tunics were the everyday clothing of Viking men and women. They were made from wool, linen, or animal skins, and were simple in design. The tunics reached to mid-thigh or knee level, and had long sleeves. They fastened at the front with a belt or brooch.
Tunics were an important part of the Viking wardrobe and would have been worn for everyday activities such as working in the fields or going to market. They would also have been used as sleeping garments.
We know this thanks to Archaeological evidence and written accounts.
Tunics were often worn with a cloak or cape, which could be fastened at the shoulder with a brooch. Both men and women also wore trousers, which were usually made from wool or linen. Sometimes a belt was worn around the waist of the tunic.
In colder months or while at sea Vikings may have worn two tunics. The double-layer would have made them considerably warmer.
Viking Age tunics were often brightly colored and patterned with stripes or geometric designs. The colors used would have been made from natural dyes, such as woad (blue) or madder (red).
Viking tunics would have been made by the women in a household, using simple sewing techniques. The fabric would first be cut to the required shape and size, before being sewn together. The tunic could then be decorated with embroidery, appliqué, or other embellishments. Another design feature would be to sew the tunic using a thread of a different color (eg white hem thread on a black tunic).
They can be easily made at home with some wool, linen, or animal skins and a few sewing supplies. The tunics reach mid-thigh or knee level, have long sleeves, and fasten at the front with a belt or brooch. You can also add a cloak or cape for extra warmth. Viking tunics are often brightly colored and patterned with stripes or geometric designs. The colors used are usually natural dyes, such as woad (blue) or madder (red).
Viking tunics reached mid-thigh or knee level and had long sleeves.
Viking tunics were made from wool, linen, or animal skins.