Cotte

Cotte

A cotte is a type of medieval garment that was commonly worn by both men and women during the Middle Ages. It is a loose-fitting tunic-like garment that typically reaches the knees or ankles. The cotte was a versatile piece of clothing that could be worn as an outer garment or as an undergarment, depending on the occasion and the social status of the wearer.

A depiction of a medieval cotte

History

The cotte originated in Europe during the 12th century and remained popular throughout the medieval period. It was influenced by the clothing styles of the Byzantine Empire and the Islamic world, which were known for their loose and flowing garments. The cotte was initially worn by both men and women, but over time, it became more associated with men's fashion.

Design and Construction

The cotte was typically made of linen or wool, although silk was also used for more luxurious versions. It was a simple garment, consisting of a rectangular piece of fabric with holes for the head and arms. The sides of the cotte were often left open, allowing for ease of movement. Some versions of the cotte had sleeves, while others were sleeveless.

Usage and Variations

The cotte was a versatile garment that could be worn in various ways. It could be worn as a standalone garment, belted at the waist for a more fitted look. It could also be worn as an undergarment, layered with other garments such as a surcoat or a gown. The length of the cotte varied depending on the fashion of the time, with shorter versions being more common in the earlier medieval period and longer versions becoming popular later on.

Influence and Legacy

The cotte had a significant influence on later fashion trends. It served as the basis for the development of the doublet, a close-fitting jacket worn by men during the Renaissance. The loose and flowing silhouette of the cotte also influenced the development of the gown, a popular garment for women during the medieval and Renaissance periods.

See Also

• Medieval Clothing
• Surcoat
• Gown