Overtunic (dalmatica / guarnacca) Matilde, cotton-linen mix, blue

Product description

This garment is based on an overtunic that was known under different names throughout the Middle Ages. The earliest form is the dalmatica: a straight overtunic that has been worn by women since the Byzantine period, with wide sleeves and decorative bands (clavi) along the neckline, center front and hem. This type of clothing can be seen, among other things, on the 12th-century mosaic on the facade of Santa Maria in Trastevere in Rome.

In 14th century Italy, the guarnacca worn: an over-tunic that women wore over their dress (gonnella), with sleeves that were shorter than those of the petticoat running through them. Such a guarnacca appears in Italian images from that time, such as a 14th-century wedding scene from Bologna and a work by Stefano di Sant'Agnese from 1381.

This overtunic has wide sleeves that fall just above the elbow. A woven trim, the clavi, runs along the seams and across the center of the chest.

The fabric is a mix of cotton and linen, which provides a nice texture while remaining sufficiently breathable during long days outside. Thanks to the lacing system at the back, through reinforced eyelets, you can cinch the waist tighter or wear it looser when wearing thicker layers underneath. Slits at the front and sides ensure that walking or running is never hindered.

The blue colorway makes this garment an easy way to add an extra layer and pop of color to a basic undergarment or dress. Available in sizes S up to and including 2XL.