Medieval aesthetics have increasingly made their way into modern fashion. Whether it’s Balenciaga’s knight-inspired boots or Cardi B’s sleek chainmail evening gown, designers are drawing inspiration from the Middle Ages in intriguing new ways.
At underground parties in post-pandemic London, attendees sporting torn fabrics, flowing scarves, and embroidered tunics recall a pre-industrial era. With elements of steampunk and forest folklore, their neo-pagan style feels both nostalgic and futuristic. On the high fashion runways as well, medieval elements are prevalent. Balenciaga’s fall 2021 collection featured armored boots emulating a knight’s footwear. Paco Rabanne presented regal gowns and coats of plates for spring 2021.
Fashion is taking on a more warrior-like edge as the world faces challenging times. Designers seem to be looking to history for guidance in an uncertain present. Emerging from a “dark age” swamp, according to trend forecaster Geraldine Wharry, provides escapism and lifts spirits through immersive aesthetic worlds. It draws from fairy tales and folklore prominent in the Middle Ages.
Medieval styles have proliferated across social media in recent years. Cottagecore and regencycore garnered attention on TikTok in 2020, increasing interest in occult and medieval themes. Knights and their armor now inspire the #knightcore trend with millions of views. Contemporary adaptations remixelements of 14th century dress with modern fabrics and silhouettes.
Runway presentations furthered the trend. Boramy Vigieur blended layered tunics with gauntlet gloves and leather headgear. Loewe offered sculpted metal breastplates with flowing scarves. Ferragamo presented tailored leather tunics with armor detailing. Rick Owens experimented with solemn robes and tall gladiator boots.
Some collections suggest medieval aesthetics could shape futures. Balenciaga envisioned apocalyptic survivors journeying through ruins of the past. Designer Denma Gvasalia sees value in a “spiritual future” by revisiting history. The trend may proliferate further with Denis Villeneuve’s upcoming Dune adaptation, which envisions a feudalistic future through medieval-inspired costumes.
While we won’t don chainmail ourselves, contemplating history presents new ways to reimagine tomorrow. Will knights and their armor come to define progressive silhouettes of the future? Only time will tell if medieval fashion truly transforms fashion forward.
