The Landlady Dress
In old Swedish, Husfru literally means “home woman”, but rather than describing the function of a housewife bearing children, it was an honorific title carried by women left in charge of vast domains or important institutions, acting as their stewards and managers. These medieval landladies wielded great wealth and influence in Norse society, even more so when their husbands went Viking for months or years, leaving them in full control of the household’s wealth and servants.
Planned as a secret engagement gift for the betrothed, this feminine Nordic set represents a great example of historical fantasy, with creative liberties embellishing authentic medieval fashion. The set includes a thick gray wool overdress decorated with an amazing front panel. This ornamental piece combines numerous patterns made of ribbons and weaved pieces of raw silk and lace, creating an oversaturation of texture and colors that acts as the striking centerpiece of the whole costume. The overdress is designed to be worn over a linen dress from Armstreet, and is here worn with a warm shawl made from authentic Mongolian sheep wool.
Another precious creation custom made for this gift was the leather satchel, an intricately decorated medieval accessory that is as much practical as it is a LARP fashion statement. Made of thick black leather with hand sewn red lacings, it includes two inner pockets and a large laser engraved Yggdrasil symbol, which was painted in gold for gorgeous contrast. The bag’s strap was adorned with a decorative ribbon reminiscent of the ones used on the front panel. The date of the engagement was also engraved inside the satchel to memorialize this moment.
- Overdress and pouch by Les Artisans d’Azure
- Dress by Armstreet
- Pictures by Benoit Vermette
