Dress Like a Viking Woman and Conquer Your Style Game: A Guide for Modern Women

If you’re fascinated by the Viking age and want to channel your inner shieldmaiden, it’s time to embrace the fashion of the fierce Viking women. Unlike the stereotypes of horned helmets and animal skins, Viking women’s clothing was sophisticated, colorful, and practical. Whether you’re attending a Viking festival, a historical reenactment, or just want to add some Viking flair to your wardrobe, here’s a guide to dressing like a Viking woman, complete with FAQs and shopping suggestions.

Viking Women’s Clothing

The primary fabrics used in Viking clothing were wool and linen, which were locally produced and resilient in harsh climates. Silk and other luxury materials were also available for wealthy Vikings. Women’s clothing was often long, loose, and layered, with practical details such as pockets, clasps, and ties. Women’s dresses could be plain or patterned, depending on the occasion and the wearer’s social status. Common dress styles included:

– Shifts or underdresses, which were simple linen or wool shifts worn close to the skin.
– Apron dresses, which were two rectangular pieces of fabric sewn together and held up by straps. They were often worn over skirts, fur leggings, or trousers.
– Smokkr or kontush, which were longer and more elaborate dresses worn by noblewomen. They could be pleated, embroidered, or decorated with jewelry.

Colors and Dyeing Techniques

Viking clothing was not drab or monotone, as some might think. Viking women used a variety of colorants and dyeing techniques to create vivid hues and patterns. Some of the most popular colors were:

– Red, using madder or other plant dyes
– Blue, using woad or indigo
– Yellow, using weld or dyer’s broom
– Green, using a mix of blue and yellow

Styles of Viking Women’s Clothing

Viking women’s clothing varied by region, time period, and personal taste. Here are some examples of distinct styles:

– Icelandic dress: A two-piece dress with a tight-fitting bodice and a flared overskirt, often made of wool and embellished with metal brooches.
– Birka dress: A high-necked, sleeveless dress with a pleated skirt, usually made of linen or silk and dyed in several colors.
– Hedeby dress: A tunic-style dress with side gussets, worn over an underdress and often belted at the waist or hips. Could have short or long sleeves and be made of wool or linen.

Accessories That Complete the Viking Look

Viking women didn’t settle for plain garments—they adorned themselves with a variety of jewelry, headwear, and footwear. Here are some options to consider:

– Jewelry and Ornaments: Viking women wore brooches, necklaces, arm rings, and earrings made of silver, gold, bronze, and amber. These pieces often featured animal motifs, such as snakes, birds, or wolves.
– Head Coverings: Depending on the weather and the formality of the occasion, Viking women covered their heads with hoods, caps, veils, or headbands. Some headwear featured intricate braiding or metalwork.
– Footwear and Leg Wraps: Viking women wore leather or woolen shoes, boots, or slippers, sometimes with fur trim. They also wrapped their legs in cloth strips or leather thongs for warmth and protection.

Hairstyles and Makeup of the Viking Women

To complete the Viking look, it’s important to pay attention to hair and makeup. Here are some tips:

– Braids and Styles: Viking women often wore braids, whether in a single long plait or in multiple smaller ones. They could also have updos, half-up/half-down styles, or loose hair. Some styles featured braided headbands or hairpins.
– Common Hair Accessories: Viking women used a variety of hair accessories, such as wooden combs, bone needles, silver rings, or bronze beads. These could be functional, decorative, or both.
– Makeup and Tattoos: Viking women used simple makeup such as charcoal or red ochre for outlining their eyes or lips. They also practiced tattooing, especially in Scandinavia and Russia.

Tips for Dressing Like a Viking Woman Today

If you want to incorporate Viking styles into your modern wardrobe, there are several options to consider:

– Mix and Match Modern and Viking-Inspired Clothing: You don’t have to go full-on Viking to achieve the look. You can pair a simple blouse or tunic with a suede vest or woolen cloak. Look for earthy tones, natural fabrics, and simple shapes.
– Incorporate Viking-Inspired Accessories and Jewelry into Your Wardrobe: You can add a touch of Viking flair with a brooch, a pendant, a bracelet, or a hairpiece that features Viking motifs. Etsy and other online marketplaces offer a wide range of Viking-inspired jewelry and accessories.
– Experiment with Different Hairstyles and Makeup Techniques to Perfect the Look: Viking hair and makeup can be tweaked to suit your face shape, hair type, and personal style. You can try different braiding techniques, hair accessories, or makeup products to find your ideal Viking look.

FAQs

1. What types of Viking dresses are available for sale?
There are several online shops that offer Viking-inspired dresses for women, including handmade items and more affordable options. You can find apron dresses, smokkrs, and tunics in various sizes and colors.

2. Is female Viking warrior clothing historically accurate?
Although Viking women did sometimes fight in battles, their clothing for combat was not different from men’s clothing. The idea of a warrior woman wearing a chainmail bikini is a modern fantasy, not a Viking reality.

3. Are there modern Viking clothing options for women?
Yes, there are many brands that offer modern clothing inspired by Viking styles. These can range from casual wear to formal wear, and they often feature metal accents, leather trim, and bold patterns.

4. Are there plus size Viking dresses available?
Yes, many online shops offer plus-size options for Viking-inspired dresses and clothing. Make sure to check the sizing charts and read customer reviews before making a purchase.

5. Can I make my own Viking dress using a pattern?
Yes, there are several sewing patterns available for Viking dresses, including historical reproductions and simplified versions. You can also find tutorials and DIY guides online or in books.

6. Can I wear a Viking dress as a wedding dress?
Yes, some Viking-inspired dresses can be suitable for a non-traditional wedding dress, especially if you’re having a rustic or outdoor ceremony. Look for dresses with a flowy and romantic style, or add some lace or embroidery for a personal touch.