Wimple

Definition

A wimple is a type of head covering worn by women in medieval Europe, characterized by its draped fabric that frames the face and often extends down the neck. This garment was primarily used to signify modesty and social status, particularly among married women and nuns. The wimple played an essential role in the fashion of the time, reflecting the cultural values of femininity, piety, and decorum during the medieval period.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Wimples were commonly made from light fabrics like linen or silk, allowing them to be both practical and fashionable.
2. They were typically worn over a coif or other head coverings, emphasizing the woman's modesty while also complementing her outfit.
3. Wimples evolved throughout the medieval period, changing in style, size, and material according to social status and fashion trends.
4. In addition to their aesthetic function, wimples served as a means of protection against elements like sun and wind, making them functional accessories.
5. By the late medieval period, the wimple began to decline in popularity as new styles emerged, leading to more elaborate headdresses.

Review Questions

• How did the wimple function as a symbol of social status for women in medieval Europe?
  • The wimple served as an important symbol of social status during medieval times, especially among married women and nuns. It indicated adherence to societal norms of modesty and decorum that were highly valued in that era. The materials used for a wimple often reflected a woman's wealth; higher-status individuals might wear finer fabrics like silk, while lower-status women would use simpler materials like linen. This connection between clothing and social identity made the wimple a significant aspect of medieval fashion.
• Discuss the relationship between the wimple and other head coverings like coifs and veils in medieval dress.
  • The wimple was often worn alongside other head coverings such as coifs and veils, creating a layered look that defined women's fashion in medieval Europe. The coif typically fit closely to the head and could be worn beneath the wimple, providing additional modesty. Meanwhile, veils might be added for special occasions or religious ceremonies. Together, these pieces formed a complex system of headwear that reflected a woman's status, lifestyle, and adherence to cultural expectations of modesty.
• Evaluate how changes in fashion during the late medieval period affected the use of wimples among women.
  • As fashion evolved during the late medieval period, the role of the wimple began to diminish. New styles emerged that favored more elaborate headdresses, leading to a decline in the traditional wimple's popularity. The shift reflected broader changes in societal attitudes towards femininity and self-expression. As women started to adopt more flamboyant styles that showcased their hair and personal flair, the simpler wimple became less fashionable. This transition illustrates how clothing not only serves functional purposes but also acts as an indicator of cultural shifts within society.

Related terms

coif: A coif is a close-fitting cap worn by women and men in medieval Europe, often made from linen or wool, which could be worn under or as a part of other head coverings.

veil: A veil is a piece of fabric that covers the head and sometimes the face, commonly associated with various cultural and religious traditions, serving as an accessory for modesty.

cotehardie:

The cotehardie is a fitted garment worn by both men and women in the late medieval period, often featuring long sleeves and a flared skirt, commonly paired with various head coverings.