A set of Wams, hosen, and hemd (shirt)

This suit is based off a fighting suit seen in the Goliath Fechtbuch fencing manual from 1535-40.

The suit is a fascinating mix of older and newer 16th century fashions. Tight hosen paired with skirted wams illustrates the changing silhouette of the period.

Moving from the more fitted early 16th century to the more structured fit of the mid and later century.

The client wanted the feet of the hosen removable so I added some additional slashing to blend the seam better.

Featuring a staggering 126 eyelets, the whole suit is partially machine sewn with hand finishing in linen and silk thread.

This project has been a sincere challenge and incredible learning experience. I can’t wait to return to the early 16th century again.