What did the Pilgrims wear?
If not the black clothing, buckles and blunderbusses that are common in old images from the 19th and early 20th century, what did Pilgrim men and women actually wear?
Men’s Apparel
- Shirt
- Doublet
- Breeches
- Stockings
- Lachet shoes
- Hat, either broad-brimmed or flat
Women's Apparel
- Coif headwear
- Smock or Shift
- Waistcoat
- Apron
- Petticoat (“skirt”)
- Latchet shoes
Colors
We know that the Pilgrims wore a variety of colors in their clothing from probate records where the color of various clothing items were mentioned, including violet, blue, and green. The color red was also listed; however, the reds that were used in the early 17th century were more of a brick red or a madder red, which is a little more orange in nature than modern reds. What was considered black in the early 17th century was a little different than what we think of as black today. Very dark greys, greens and blues might count as poor versions of black, and natural black sheep’s wool was also available. The deep, rich black was broadly expensive and was the opposite of demonstrating piety in the early 17th century. Thus, a true black would not have worn by our Pilgrim ancestors.
Fabrics
In 17th Century England and in the Netherlands, there were two basic fabrics that were used for clothing: wool and linen. Silk was also available and used for fancy wear. Light leather was used for men’s clothing in doublets and jerkins but was not used in women’s wear. There was combination of wool and linen known as fustian corduroy that was also used; however, finding this fabric today is almost impossible. A type of brushed cotton moleskin is available in some fabric stores online. Some vendors also offer a cotton canvas. Cotton, while available, was very rare and very expensive in the early 17th century.
Converting Chukka Boots
One of the challenges that we face in dressing like a Pilgrim is finding latchet shoes that fit. There are several vendors that can provide 17th century reproduction latchet shoes, but they often do not have the size or color that you desire, and can be expensive. Some are also very uncomfortable, especially if you are going to be marching in them. An alternative is to convert desert or chukka boots into latchet-style shoes. With a little leather work, you can have an aceptable and often very comfortable set of latchet shoes that will work just fine.
Dress Like a Pilgrim Procurement Guide
To assist members who wish to Dress Like a Pilgrim, the Mayflower Guard has prepared a procurement guide for those individuals who are considering becoming part of living history programs and activities of The Mayflower Society or of Member Societies. The information in this guide is based on research and interaction with reenactor groups such as the New Plimmoth Gard. We have identified vendors where you can purchase period appropriate gear at reasonable prices. Each of these vendors have been used to purchase Pilgrim Appropriate Apparel by members of the Mayflower Guard. The guide will be updated periodically as new vendors are added and additional resources identified.