Body Content
Have you ever given much thought to your pockets? Surprisingly, pockets weren’t always sewn into clothes—in medieval times, people wore them more like pouches or fanny packs.
In this episode of Becoming Artsy, Jessie explores the history of pockets, with help from Cynthia Konow-Brownell, an expert in historical textiles and a member of the Society for Creative Anachronism. Konow-Brownell demonstrates a variety of dress styles including “middle-class couture” to reveal how medieval pouches were styled and used. Jessie also talks with Larisa Grollemond, assistant curator of medieval manuscripts at the Getty Museum, who shares examples of pouches and purses featured in illuminations of the time.
Jessie’s journey continues with a tie-on pocket-making lesson with Konow-Brownell, utilizing medieval sewing supplies. Along the way, Jessie uncovers quirky medieval fashion terms and some bewildering pocket history—including the story of women’s fight for pocket equality.
Watch the full episode below and download a PDF of pocket-making instructions and pattern here.
