15th century arming doublet Bernhard, black

Product description

Arming doublets were worn beneath plate armour from the 15th century onward. The laces on the doublet permitted pieces of armour to be attached directly to the garment. The arming doublet was a development of the gambeson and the 14th-century pourpoint. The inside of the doublet is padded, affording protection to the body against blows transmitted through armour pieces. In the late Gothic style (1450–1500), arming doublets were often fitted with voiders and a chainmail skirt (gousset). In late 15th-century Italy, this also became a civilian fashion: men who were not knights wore arming doublets, probably because the garment suggested status and chivalry.

The doublet was combined with trousers or chausses, which were laced directly to the doublet. Typical features of a doublet include a close-fitting cut, a small standing collar, and a closed or buttoned front. Initially, the doublet was worn as a high-necked under-jacket. During the Renaissance, the neckline became lower and the doublet more richly decorated. Typically, a light shirt or undershirt was worn beneath the doublet.

Images of doublets from the late Middle Ages and the Renaissance may be found in abundance, for example in the Codices Palatini germanici 466.

The doublet, constructed from cotton with a close-fitting cut, features contrasting details throughout. The centre front is closed with a burgundy lace. Laces are also present at the sleeve hems and the bottom edge. The bottom laces permit hose to be attached directly to the doublet. The doublet is lined with a light, contrasting cotton fabric. This is not an armoured doublet.

The doublet has been designed to be worn beneath armour in a historical manner and is fitted with laces for attaching armour pieces.