High Medieval Houpelandes for Men and Women Pattern
Houpelandes were the last fashion which was found throughout Europe, as well as being the last unisex fashion. This comfortable style, flowing from the shoulder to the hem, apparently first developed in Italy around 1380, but by 1400 was found throughout Europe. Belted or loose, houpelandes were usually worn over a cotehardie (PP21 & PP23) ,a second houpelande with tight sleeves, a chemise (PP90) ,or shirt (PP43) and hose (PP43 or PP101). By 1450 there were many variations of this style, mostly of the sleeves, neckline. Women's houpelandes were always floor-length, although men's houpelandes varied from very short to very long. Only a few were limited by sex or geographical location. By 1475 houpelandes were no longer considered fashionable (although still occasionally seen). Men's cotehardies had developed into doublets, and the houpelande became a gown or robe often worn open down the front (PP43 and PP53). Period Patterns number 26, Houpelandes, c. 1390-1460 A.D., has 6 houpelandes for either sex, with sleeves and necklines interchangeable. The sleeves and cotehardie underneath are faked, but the fake sleeves can be left off and replaced by a cotehardie or a 2nd houpelande (sizes: woman's 8-18 & Men's 36-48 included). These are complimented by PP21, PP23, PP43, PP90, PP92, PP93 and PP101.