[MR] What DID viking ladies really wear?

[ldmolly at md.metrocast.net]

Mostly for M'lady Bera, but included for others who may be interested...

     I wanted to weigh in on this topic as I have several years of
hands-on experience wearing the tube style dress you mention. The
dress is not a tube per se, as gores are added into the waist to
allow for widening of the skirts. These gores also allow for the
widening of expectant mothers. In situations where a mother's belly
grows too large for the dress, it can simply be hitched up (over the
belly) without losing too much in the way of functionality (warmth).
I also do not advise cutting the aprons skin tight, as they seem to
be most flattering and work best (ie...keeps me warmest) when there
is some "give" in them. Coincidently, wool aprons work marvelously
for this, as wool is a naturally elastic fiber.
     Breast feeding is often accomplished by using a tunic with a longer
neck opening for the tunic and under layers, allowing access to the
breast. The apron is simply slid down under the breast (towards the
waist) to allow the child to nurse.
     I have found from personal experience that the apron (minus the
festoons and dangly bits) is an incredibly functional garment in
terms of movement and usability. The layers serve to keep one warm
and of course can be belted/tied up if more maneuverability is
needed. I have been able to cook, wash, tend my child, chop wood,
carry buckets, and run in the dress without needing to belt it, but I
have not tried farming in it yet, so my research is not all
encompassing, smile.

     I'd encourage you to give the apron dress a try. You may find it's
more versatile than you originally suspected. I hope my personal
experiences with this dress style help to inspire others to consider
it's use as a valid and functional option for maternity clothing.

Molly
(Mary Isabel of Heatherstone)