Robyn Spencer

Robyn Spencer

Early 16th century Frauenhemd (chemise)

A simple gathered Frauenhemd (woman’s shirt), which might be worn by all classes of German women in the first half of the 16th century – or in the Netherlands, France (Chemise), Italy (Camisa), or Spain (Camicia). It is cut differently…

1520s Italian Man’s Balzo and Berretto

This hat is inspired by ‘Portrait of a Man‘ by Moretto da Brescia, depicting a young noble man wearing a gold balzo and red wool berretto. This style of headwear was fashionable across Italy, Germany and Spain over the first…

Woman wearing a short jacket top over a long sleeved woolen gown

1520s Blue Wool Vest Goller

This short vest-style Goller is suitable for a German middle class woman, and was fashionable through much of the 16th century. For such a small garment, it adds a lot of warmth! I first made this style many years ago…

Linen sack lying on the grass

Medieval Market Wallet

This practical sack was in use across Europe throughout the middle ages and renaissance. Slung over a shoulder or staff, lower classes could carry their shopping or working lunch, and travellers could easily carry a lot of gear. A simple…