The tunic was an essential part of a medieval wardrobe for both men and women. It could be used as outerwear or undergarments, and came in a variety of colors and fabrics to suit the needs of different people. The tunic could be and was a basic piece of most wardrobes. Whether you’re looking for something to wear to your reenactment event or Renaissance Faire there’s sure to be a tunic that’s perfect for you.
Tunics were a piece of fashion that evolved from the ancient Roman garment called a "tunica". This was a basic, loose fitting garment that could be worn both as inner and outer clothing. The main difference between the tunica and later the renaissance tunic was the fit. The tunica was a large loose fitting garment with draping folds usually pinned in place. The inner tunic served as the Roman version of underwear. An outer tunic was often made of finer fabric than the inner tunic.
Over time the tunic evolved and became far more form fitting. In the era after the fall of Rome the tunic not only had a tighter fit, it also was often trimmed with embroidery or woven/braided ropes. Gussets began being used under the arms in order to provide ease of movement. Many also began adding a "keyhole" top where the tunic was split about 3-6 inches down the front of the neck hole. Any added trim followed the line of the front of the tunic. Soon people began adding a flare to the bottom of the tunic, achieved by large side gussets. Most tunics fell from midthigh to just under the knee and were worn over pants.
The tunics worn as undergarments eventually evolved into the chemise, both fitted and not. An embellishment of clothing items in general became more common; many tunics were embroidered and it was more common for beads, precious stones and pearls to be added, wherever status and money permitted.
In the Elizabethan era the outer tunic evolved into a doublet. A doublet was a top worn by both men and women. A doublet was a top garment that ended at the waist. It was cut down the front from top to bottom and was closed with either buttons or hooks. It had a collar and could be worn either with or without sleeves. It was often decorated with pearls, precious stones, beads, trim and slashing. Slashing is when you cut a small hole in the fabric to reveal an inner layer of contrasting color. The slashes were made in various geometric shapes and many, small slashes were a mark of wealth as it meant you could afford to pay the tailor more.
Though it might seem like a simple garment, the tunic has a long and complex history. It was once the most common article of clothing in Europe and is still seen in modern fashion. The next time you see a tunic, take a moment to appreciate its long legacy.