Medieval headwear – the finishing touch that completes the garb
Garb without headwear is like armor without a helmet: it works, but something's missing. Historically, almost everyone in the Middle Ages wore something on their head – out of propriety, against the weather, because of their job. For your role, that means: hardly any piece costs so little effort and brings so much credibility as a hood, coif, or cap. At Elbenwald you'll find medieval headwear for LARP, market, and reenactment-adjacent occasions – from the weatherproof everyday piece to the hat that is a negotiating position in itself. On top of that, headwear is the cheapest way to visibly upgrade an existing garb: same tunic, new hat – new role. Hardly any piece changes the effect so much for so little effort, and hardly any gets borrowed and returned so rarely at camp.
Which headwear fits which role?
The hood is the all-rounder: hood and shoulder cape in one, it protects against wind, rain, and morning cold and suits practically any garb – from farmer to wanderer with a secret. The coif is the piece of the working population: tied under the chin, it keeps hair and dust in check and is worn under everything that goes on top of it. Hats and caps are the rank markers: wide brims for travelers, finer shapes for townsfolk and dignitaries. And for Nordic roles, the rule is: whatever isn't fabric is fur, or at least looks like it. The scene's rule of thumb is role first, then head: a maid in a Sunday hat is just as jarring as a lord in a work coif. Practically speaking, headwear also does three jobs at once: sun protection in high summer, a warmth layer on cold nights, and an umbrella substitute when the weather takes over the drama. Material and size details are on the respective product page.
Frequently asked questions
What is a gugel?
A medieval hood with an attached shoulder cape, worn as a standalone garment. It protects head, neck, and shoulders, can be flipped back in the sun, and is one of the most versatile pieces of garb – across nearly every role and era.
Why do people wear headwear at markets and conventions?
For the same reasons as back then: sun, wind, rain, and authenticity. A market day is long, shade is rare, and headwear is the sun protection that actually matches your garb – unlike a baseball cap, which stands out on every camp photo.
How do I find the right size?
Measure head circumference – above the eyebrows, at the widest point – and compare it to the details on the product page. Tied styles like coifs and many hoods are flexible anyway and adjust to fit.
Which headwear suits a LARP character?
Whichever one tells the role: a hood for wanderers and shady figures, a coif for craft and healing, a hat for merchants and dignitaries. When in doubt, the convention rule applies: a plain piece of headwear beats none at all – a visibly modern haircut breaks the illusion faster than any sneaker.
Range overview
Headwear finishes the garb of the Medieval & LARP world at the top – alongside Coats & Cloaks for the weather front, Shirts & Tunics and dresses as the base, and blouses and skirts for market garb. At the other end, shoes close things off – which means the garb really is head to toe.
What else goes with it?
Anyone who'd rather cover their head in everyday life will find the modern relatives among baseball caps & beanies. For finer appearances – elven court instead of market stall – it's worth a look at headpieces: tiaras famously negotiate differently than coifs.
