Viking Dress Code

As the name suggests, the book is made as an encyclopedia full of facts and well substantiated conclusions about the Viking fashion and costume choice. This gives the reader a unique insight into what the Vikings actually wore and which accessories and embellishments complemented their suits. The book begins with a chronological and geographical review of the archaeological findings and images underlying today’s knowledge of the Vikings’ clothing.

Then the author continues with a review of textiles, skins and other materials the Vikings used as well as some about the tools and techniques used to jewellery the suits. Among other things, plant dyeing, needle bonding, brodyr and tray tissue have their own sections. Simply explained and illustrated with photos and sketches that give the information a good depth.

The third part of the book goes through the Vikings' costumes divided by the regions of Denmark, Sweden and Norway and presented chronologically. The costumes are also divided into men's and women's costumes. Here, the author systematically goes through the finds that exist and continuously explains about techniques, design and how fashion changes over time. The reader is treated to an enormous wealth of detail as well as fantastic fashion sketches that present in a painterly way what the costumes might have looked like. There are sweets here both for the very geeky and for those who want inspiration for their Viking wedding.

Clearly a book we at Nordlys recommends all Viking interests to have in the bookcase.