Viking outfit
A Viking outfit consists of far more than just a tunic and a belt. To put together a coherent ensemble, you need to understand which garments historically belong together, which materials are actually authentic to the Viking Age, and how a complete set for men and women should be structured. This category offers around 200 items — from simple leggings to chainmail suitable for re-enactment combat — and thus covers all needs, from a first outfit to a complete re-enactment ensemble.
What makes a Viking outfit: the basics of attire
Vikings dressed for functionality, not for decoration. This is reflected in the choice of materials: wool, linen and leather dominated everyday clothing from the 8th to the 11th century. A complete basic outfit consisted of several layers — a close-fitting linen under-tunic, a warmer woolen over-tunic or dress, trousers or leggings, and a leather belt.
The difference between historically inspired clothing and a costume from the carnival shelf lies primarily in the cut and the material. Historically documented cuts follow simple, functional lines without superfluous embellishments. For re-enactment groups, the rule is generally: no synthetic fibres. Polyester and synthetic fibres stand out immediately — and handle sweat and moisture fundamentally differently from natural materials. Anyone wishing to buy a Viking outfit that will hold up during a re-enactment or a visit to a market lasting several hours should look for natural fibres when making their purchase.
Viking outfit for LARP, re-enactment and medieval markets
- Historically documented materials (wool, linen, leather)
- Source references for cut and colour scheme preferred
- Archaeological reference finds (e.g. Haithabu, Hedeby)
- Complete costume including armour and equipment
- Chainmail, spiked helmet, shield as possible additions
- Focus on playability and freedom of movement
- Cotton accepted as an affordable entry-level option
- Overall look and authentic appearance are key
- Comfort over many hours is crucial
- Items suitable for display combat (gambesones, chainmail) available
Items such as gambesones and chainmail are suitable for all three areas — they offer protection, look historically accurate and can also be used in re-enactment combat. Those who primarily attend markets can be a little more flexible with the material; for re-enactment groups with set presentation standards, it is advisable to opt for wool and linen from the outset.
Viking outfit for women: strapless dress, over-dress and brooches
The typical women’s outfit of the Viking Age consisted of a floor-length linen undergarment and a strapless dress worn over it — the so-called apron dress or hanging skirt. This is fastened at the shoulders with two brooches and falls open over the undergarment. The combination of underdress and apron dress is attested by numerous archaeological finds, including textile remains from the trading centre of Haithabu (Hedeby) in present-day Schleswig-Holstein.
Haithabu provides important clues regarding cut and colouring: the fabrics were predominantly undyed or dyed with vegetable dyes in earth tones, blue and red. The Viking apron dress ‘Frida’ in the shop is based on these findings — as is the Haithabu overdress, which is intended as a harmonious complement to the undergarment.
In addition to the garments, a complete women’s ensemble also includes brooches serving as both functional fastenings and decorative elements, brooch chains, a pouch on the belt, and hair ornaments. Viking jewellery such as bracelets, necklaces and pendants made of silver or bronze complete the picture of an authentic portrayal.
Materials compared: wool, linen, leather and cotton
| Material | Suitability | Use |
|---|---|---|
| Wool | Historical | Overtunics, dresses, capes, trousers |
| Linen | Historical | Undergarments, shirts, underpants |
| Leather | Historical | Belts, shoes, bags, sheaths |
| Cotton | LARP / Beginners | Tunics, leggings, dresses — affordable entry-level options |
| Synthetic | Not recommended | Unwelcome in reenactment circles |
Wool regulates moisture and provides warmth — even when wet, it retains most of its insulating properties, which makes a big difference at outdoor markets and camps. Linen is breathable and ideal for the layer next to the skin. Leather was the standard material for belts, shoes and bags — and remains so in a historical context to this day.
Cotton is not a medieval material in Northern Europe, but is accepted as an affordable entry-level option within the scene. Those aiming for the most authentic representation will sooner or later switch to wool and linen. Our own brand, Vehi Mercatus, consistently uses natural fibres — exclusively cotton, linen or wool, no synthetics. The fabrics are manufactured in weaving mills according to our own specifications.
Putting together a complete Viking set: what does it involve?
The foundation of every Viking outfit: an under-tunic or under-dress (linen), an over-tunic or strappy dress (wool or cotton), trousers or leggings, a leather belt, Viking shoes. These five items make up a complete, harmonious outfit — even without armour or weapons. For women, the strappy dress worn over the under-dress replaces the tunic.
Cape with brooch, leg wraps, pouch or belt bag, headgear, Viking leg wraps, drinking horn on the belt. These items transform a functional basic outfit into a complete market ensemble. Brooches in various sizes serve not only as fastenings but also as visible decorative elements.
Those aiming for a complete re-enactment outfit should supplement the basic attire with protective gear: gambeson or padded under-tunic, chainmail, shield, helmet (e.g. spangenhelm), Viking weapons such as an axe or sword. This equipment is expensive — the guide price is between 100 and 800 euros depending on the design. Recommendation: build up the clothing first, then gradually add the equipment.
Bracelets, brooches, chains, pendants, beard beads and hair ornaments complete any outfit. Brooches and ring brooches are not only decorative but also serve a practical purpose as fastenings for garments. A leather pouch on the belt and a drinking horn complete the look for markets and events.
Viking outfit by budget: entry-level, mid-range and re-enactment level
Individual items such as cotton leggings, simple tunics or a strappy dress. Ideal for a first visit to a market or as a basis for a growing wardrobe. Cotton is the typical compromise here between price and appearance.
Higher-quality tunics and dresses made from wool or a linen blend, Viking knives such as the Scrama Sax with a leather sheath, leather belts and initial accessories. In this price range, you can already create cohesive overall looks that will hold their own even at more discerning markets.
Chainmail, spiked helmets, display weapons and full protective gear. Prices in the shop range up to just under 800 euros. Anyone aiming for a historically accurate portrayal should plan these investments for the long term — good equipment will last for many years with proper care.
Viking outfit for men: tunic, trousers, belt and more
The core outfit for men consists of a Viking tunic made of linen or wool, trousers or leggings, a leather belt and matching Viking shoes. Leggings were fastened to the belt with a toggle hook or strap and are a characteristic feature of early medieval men’s clothing.
Optionally, a woollen cloak with a brooch, calf wraps and a leather pouch can complement the outfit. The layering principle is not a modern concept, but is historically documented: at markets and camps, temperatures often fluctuate greatly, and those who can remove or add layers of clothing remain mobile and comfortable. A woollen cloak keeps you warm without restricting freedom of movement.
For re-enactors or participants in military camp re-enactments, a gambeson and chainmail are added as a protective layer. Early medieval and Viking helmets, as well as shields and bucklers, complete a full combat re-enactment. If you’re just starting out, it makes sense to build your outfit from the inside out — first the clothing, then the equipment.
Whether you’re putting together your first Viking outfit or completing your ensemble layer by layer — in this category you’ll find tunics, dresses, trousers, shoes, belts and equipment for every need and every budget. Browse through the range and build your complete set.
Frequently asked questions
A complete Viking outfit consists of at least a linen under-tunic, a woolen over-tunic or strappy dress, trousers or leggings, a leather belt and matching shoes. Optional additions include a cloak, brooches, pouches and jewellery. For a re-enactment, the outfit is supplemented with a gambeson, chainmail, helmet and weapons.
Historically accurate materials are wool, linen and leather — these materials dominated clothing during the Viking Age in Northern Europe. Cotton is not a medieval material, but is accepted as an affordable option for beginners in LARP and market circles. Synthetic fibres such as polyester are generally frowned upon in re-enactment groups.
A costume from the carnival or Halloween range is often made from synthetic fibres, does not follow a historical cut and rarely lasts longer than a single event. A garment, on the other hand, is based on archaeological finds, uses natural fibres and is crafted in such a way that it remains comfortable and authentic even after several hours of wear at markets or events.
In the Viking era, women wore a long linen slip dress and, over this, an apron dress fastened at the shoulders with two brooches. Men combined a tunic, trousers or leggings, a leather belt and shoes. Both outfits are complemented by a cloak, jewellery and accessories such as pouches and knives.
A simple starter set consisting of a tunic and leggings can be put together for as little as around 50 euros. Experience shows that a coherent market outfit including shoes, a belt and accessories costs between 100 and 200 euros. For a complete re-enactment outfit with chainmail, helmet and weapons, you should budget between 300 and 800 euros — depending on the quality and how comprehensive you want it to be.