Question

Start with the basics

Answer

It doesn't have to be fancy or expensive. A simple viking outfit can be made with a tunic over a long skirt or neutral colored pants, finished off with a leather, woven fabric, or ribbon belt.

Question

Add layers!

Answer

Layers add authenticity, and comfort/ flexibility for variable weather. This wedding will take place outdoors, so please keep this in mind when designing your outfit. A great idea is to plan for a aesthetic short sleeved or light weight main garment, that can be placed over a neutral under layer for added warmth, or used on its own if the weather is warm. A wool blanket can also be fashioned easily into a cloak (and is historically accurate!) Polar fleece makes a great inexpensive lookalike for wool, and does not require any sewing edges. Using a variety of textures, such as woven cotton or linen, felted wool, open knit/ crochet fabrics, leather and (faux) fur, add dimension and interest to any outfit.

Question

Accessorize!

Answer

Adding a few accessories, such as viking brooch beads, a wide belt, leg wraps, hair accessories and /or a belt pouch can really add character to an outfit!

Question

Consider the colors!

Answer

Some colors would have been easier or harder to come by using the natural dyes available to vikings. Of course, natural linen and earthy browns would have been common colors, but bright reds, blues, yellows and greens could also be produced using natural dyes. Below are two links with good summaries of common historic dyes: https://www.thehistoricaldyer.com/about_dyes.php https://historicenterprises.com/womens-c-100/information-c-100_254/fabrics-c-100_254_198/colors-c-100_254_198_200/