Viking Costume
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The Vikings were Norse sailors, traders and raiders who traveled from Scandinavia across Europe between roughly 793 and 1066. They’re a hugely popular costume, and a great one to get right, because most store versions get one big detail wrong.
What Makes It Work
Start with a long, belted tunic in wool-like colors: brown, rust, deep green or blue. Trim at the neck and sleeves is a nice period touch.
Add fur. A faux-fur cape, vest or shoulder wrap does most of the visual work. Leather wrist bracers and leg wraps over pants sell the rugged look.
Then the gear. A round wooden-look shield painted with a simple design, a wide leather belt with a pouch, and leather boots. For women, a long dress with an apron-style overdress held by two brooches at the shoulders is based on real finds.
What People Get Wrong
Horned helmets. Real Vikings didn’t wear them in battle. The look comes from 19th-century costume designers, especially for the 1876 premiere of Wagner’s Ring operas. A plain rounded helmet is more accurate, and at a Renaissance faire, people will notice.
Buy It or Build It?
Kits run about $30 to $80. Faire-quality pieces cost more. Thrift a long tunic or dress, add a faux-fur wrap and a shield, and you’re there.
Where to Buy
| Retailer | What they carry | |
|---|---|---|
| Amazon | Costume kits, wigs and accessories | Shop on Amazon |
FAQ
Did Vikings wear horned helmets?
No. There’s no evidence they wore them in battle. The horns came from 19th-century opera and art.
What did Viking women wear?
Usually a long linen dress with a wool apron dress over it, fastened at the shoulders with a pair of oval brooches.
Can I wear a Viking costume to a Renaissance faire?
Yes. Natural-looking fabrics, fur and leather fit in better than shiny costume material.
What's a good couples Viking costume?
A Viking warrior and a shieldmaiden, with matching colors on your shields.
Next up: Medieval Knight Costume
See Also
Free: The Last-Minute Costume Cheat Sheet
Ten costumes you can make tonight, mostly from your own closet. One page, printable, plus a short email before each costume season. No spam.