the 15th century Italian gown

Before the horrible tragedy of Alfhild's death, I had a good time at Double Wars. And on Saturday I got to wear my new 15th century Italian. 

One of two days when it wasn't too cold and/or wet to wear a dress from brushed cotton with some cleavage 

Photos by my dear friend Elisabet Nilsdotter, who, like me, is one of the founding members of the household "Haus Rotkäppchen", dedicated to drinking (former East) German bubbly.

an incredible loss

I am quoting from the social media accounts of my SCA kingdom, Drachenwald, because I don't have words in my grief.

"It is with profound sadness that we share the news that Baroness Alfhild de Foxley has passed away unexpectedly last night while attending Double Wars in Nordmark. Our thoughts are with her husband Baron Matti, all of their family and her Barony of Gotvik in these difficult times. 

The sad news was shared with everyone at the event last night and our hearts are filled with love at seeing how everyone is supporting each other and continuing to live the dream that Alfhild loved."

I am not Ok, but in time the sharp ache will be dulled and eased. Unfortunately I know this from experience.

Kenya is trying to make me happier.

May she rest in joy in the Summer land, and her soul be reborn when it is ready.

New 15th century Italian dress

Since I don't need to make new clothes to go to events, except for shifts and hose occasionally, I only make new outfits because I want to.

Like this late 15th century Italian outfit made from brushed cotton.

Ever since I started reading about cotton in Europe in the Middle Ages, I've wanted to make something from brushed cotton, since that was used as a cheap substitute for wool in medieval Italy. (My article on cotton in medieval Europe can be found in the left hand column.) But to my surprise (well not really) it is not as easy to find in fabric shops as it was in the 1980s. So both the green and the red fabric is from charity shops. In fact everything except the lacing cord which is from a factory museum , is from charity shops.

I am going to wear it at the SCA event Double Wars, which starts this Friday.