What Vikings Really Wore, According To Archaeologists?

The popular portrayal of Vikings in movies and TV shows often depicts them as brutal warriors who roamed across Europe, Central Asia, and North America during the ninth to 11th centuries, engaging in conquests. This fierce image, while entertaining, oversimplifies Viking culture and lifestyle.

In reality, many Vikings were Middle Ages farmers who wore simple, practical clothing. Although some Vikings were wealthier and engaged in battles or adventurous trade journeys, even their most luxurious attire would seem modest by today’s fashion standards. Viking clothing was generally plain compared to modern fashion. For those interested in authentically recreating Viking clothing for costumes or personal use, archaeological discoveries offer insights into their garments, grooming, and accessories, although some aspects of their attire remain unknown.

Practicality and Cleanliness Were Key 

Hollywood often glamorizes Viking fashion, but their actual clothing was much more practical and straightforward. The majority of what is known about Viking attire comes from fragmented textiles found in graves and bogs, providing a general idea of their clothing style. Viking garments were primarily made from flax and wool—materials readily available at the time—and were designed in simple, functional shapes.

A major misconception is the portrayal of Vikings wearing knitwear, which didn't exist in their era. The coarse, rough textures of archaeological fabrics reveal a much different reality. Similar to modern-day thrift practices, Viking clothing was made to last, often passed down or repurposed. Another inaccuracy is the idea that Vikings wore full silk garments. Silk was a rare luxury, imported from distant regions such as the Byzantine Empire, and only the wealthiest could afford to incorporate small strips of silk into their clothing as decoration.

For Viking women, the typical outfit consisted of thick, strap-style dresses layered with sturdy cloaks. Viking men wore long tunics paired with trousers, often layering with cloaks for added warmth. Both men and women favored durable leather boots for footwear. Social class distinctions were minimal in Viking clothing, as shown by garments recovered from 10th-century graves in Denmark. Elaborate embroidery, while occasionally found, was rare, even among wealthier Vikings, and was often repurposed from household textiles like wall hangings rather than being custom-made for garments.

Beyond the Stereotypes: Viking Craftsmanship

The common stereotype of Vikings draped in crude animal skins is far from accurate. Vikings were skilled craftsmen who took great care in creating their cloaks and coats. Luxurious furs were highly prized and never worn in their raw form; instead, they were meticulously crafted into well-made garments by those who could afford them. The popular image of rugged Vikings wrapped in animal hides doesn’t align with the archaeological evidence.

Determining the exact colors of Viking clothing remains a challenge. Archaeologists have discovered traces of red, blue, yellow, and green dyes, but it’s unclear how frequently these colors were used or how the dyes were sourced. Many fabrics have lost their original color over time, making it difficult to paint a complete picture of the Vikings' wardrobe palette.

Contrary to popular belief, Vikings valued cleanliness. Artifacts like combs, razors, tweezers, and ear spoons reveal that they practiced personal grooming. Vikings even developed their own version of shampoo, debunking the myth that they were unhygienic. The misconception of filthy Vikings may stem from exaggerated accounts by Arab traveler Ahmad ibn Fadlan, who described Swedish Vikings as unclean, likely for dramatic effect. The violent raids on monasteries likely further cemented their barbaric image.

The Viking Eye for Detail 

Vikings paid close attention to their accessories, which often held both functional and decorative significance. Belts were a common feature, equipped with tools for farming and expeditions. Vikings also had an appreciation for jewelry, wearing necklaces and arm rings crafted from materials like wood, glass, and gold. Vikings who traveled widely often brought back exotic jewelry from regions like North Africa, the Middle East, and India, proudly displaying these items during their life and even taking them to the grave.

Jewelry also plays a significant role in modern archaeological research. In Viking graves where skeletal evidence is insufficient to determine gender, brooches have provided valuable clues. These brooches, typically found in the graves of upper-class women, were used to fasten cloaks and varied widely in design, possibly indicating marital status, similar to modern wedding bands. Brooch styles also reflected regional identities across Viking settlements, making them key artifacts in understanding Viking culture.

When it comes to Viking warriors, the iconic horned helmet is nothing more than a myth. Only one intact Viking helmet has been discovered in Scandinavia, and it had no horns. Fragments of helmets have been found in Denmark, but their widespread use is uncertain. Additionally, only one complete suit of chainmail has been recovered, suggesting that chainmail was reserved for the elite, rather than being standard issue for Viking armies.

Viking hairstyles, often depicted in modern media with shaved sides, are not strongly supported by historical evidence. Viking women typically wore their hair long, while men may have sported a reverse mullet, although documentation is sparse.

Interestingly, gender roles in Viking society, while generally strict, did allow for some fluidity. Recent portrayals of female Viking warriors align with archaeological findings that suggest women may have fought alongside men. Both Viking men and women used makeup, with eyeliner being a popular choice, possibly to enhance their features. 

Viking Weaponry and Armor: More Than Meets the Eye 

While Vikings are often depicted as brutal warriors wielding axes and swords, their approach to weaponry and armor was more sophisticated than most realize. Contrary to the image of every Viking charging into battle armed to the teeth, only a fraction of Viking men had access to such equipment. Most Vikings carried simple, practical weapons like spears or knives, with swords being reserved for the wealthiest individuals due to the high cost of production. Shields, made from wood and reinforced with leather, were the most common form of protection, designed for both offense and defense in battle.

Armor, particularly chainmail, was a luxury few could afford. Only one complete suit of Viking chainmail has been discovered, indicating that chainmail was likely worn by elite warriors or leaders. Helmets, another rarity, were typically simple iron caps offering basic head protection, but even these were not standard issue. The widespread myth of horned helmets, popularized by modern media, has no basis in archaeological evidence. This suggests that Viking warriors, though fierce, relied more on agility and strategy than heavy armor in battle.

The Role of Textiles in Viking Trade

Textiles played an important role in Viking trade, with wool and linen being among the most valuable commodities. Viking women, responsible for spinning and weaving, were integral to the economy, producing durable fabrics that were used both domestically and for trade. These textiles were highly sought after in both local and foreign markets, with Viking traders bringing back exotic materials such as silk from the Byzantine Empire and the Middle East. The ability to integrate foreign textiles with local materials showcased the Vikings’ adaptability and craftsmanship.

Trading textiles also allowed Vikings to access luxury goods and establish far-reaching connections. Archaeological finds, such as silk strips sewn into woolen garments, demonstrate the Vikings’ desire to incorporate rare and valuable materials into their everyday wear. These small details highlight the interconnectedness of Viking society with other cultures, reflecting their status not only as raiders but also as savvy traders and craftsmen.

 

Viking Influence on Modern Fashion and Design

The Viking aesthetic has left a lasting impact on modern fashion and design, inspiring everything from haute couture to everyday wear. Contemporary fashion often draws on Viking motifs, such as runic symbols, intricate patterns, and rugged textures, reflecting a fascination with their bold and practical style. Designers and brands frequently incorporate elements of Viking attire into their collections, celebrating the functional beauty and historical significance of Viking clothing.

This modern adaptation of Viking style can be seen in various aspects of design, from fashion and jewelry to home décor. For example, Viking-inspired jewelry often features symbols like Thor’s hammer or Valknut, while clothing designs might emulate the layered, practical look of Viking garments. The revival of these elements in contemporary fashion underscores a broader appreciation for Viking culture and its enduring influence on design aesthetics. As interest in historical styles continues to grow, the Viking legacy remains a source of inspiration, bridging the gap between ancient craftsmanship and modern creativity.

Conclusion

While popular culture often portrays Vikings as fearsome warriors, a closer look reveals a society deeply rooted in practicality, craftsmanship, and attention to detail. From their functional garments made of wool and flax to their intricate jewelry and skilled weaponry, the Vikings exhibited a rich and nuanced culture. For those interested in experiencing authentic Viking style or incorporating elements of Viking fashion and accessories into their own lives, Triple Viking offers a wide range of Viking clothing, jewelry, and other items that reflect the true essence of Viking craftsmanship. Explore their offerings to connect with the past and bring a piece of Viking heritage into your daily life.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What materials were Viking clothes made of?
   Viking clothing was primarily made from wool and flax. Wealthier individuals sometimes incorporated small strips of silk for decoration.
2. Did Vikings really wear horned helmets?
   No, horned helmets are a modern myth. Archaeological evidence shows that Viking helmets were simple iron caps without horns.
3. How did Vikings maintain personal hygiene?
   Vikings practiced personal grooming with combs, razors, tweezers, and developed their own version of shampoo, contrary to the belief that they were unhygienic.
4. What role did textiles play in Viking trade?
   Textiles such as wool and linen were highly valuable in Viking trade. Viking women spun and wove these fabrics, which were traded both locally and abroad.
5. What types of jewelry did Vikings wear?
   Vikings wore a variety of jewelry, including necklaces, arm rings, and brooches made from materials like wood, glass, and gold. Jewelry often had both functional and decorative purposes and could also indicate social status or regional identity.