The Swedish History Museum is offering visitors a unique glimpse into medieval fashion with its ongoing exhibition, Medieval Fashion. Running until November 1, 2026, the exhibition showcases beautifully recreated women’s garments spanning from the 12th century to the early 16th century.
The exhibition is a collaboration between the Swedish History Museum and the Medieval Museum, the latter currently without a permanent home while awaiting relocation. Seamstress and historical clothing expert Åsa Dahlstedt, who contributed to the exhibition, highlights the universal nature of fashion:
There is a great interest in historical clothing, but we have never had an exhibition about it, so we thought it was time. Clothing is something very universal that everyone can relate to. All people need clothes to stay warm and there have always been people who have been interested in fashion at all times. We had the opportunity to be at the Historical Museum and we are happy about that.
Recreating the Textiles of the Past
Photo by Johan Stigholt, Medieval Museum
The garments on display have been carefully reconstructed over four years, using period-accurate materials, dyes, and sewing techniques. The exhibition features a mix of simple, mended garments—showcasing how clothing was often repaired and reused—and more elaborate outfits worn by wealthier individuals. Wool was the most common fabric, while the affluent could afford silk details and finer textiles.
Dahlstedt explains that even wealthy merchant families, though below the nobility, could acquire high-quality fabrics. Linen or hemp was commonly used for undergarments, such as petticoats and shirts. The exhibition demonstrates the craftsmanship required in medieval clothing, as all garments were hand-sewn and tailored specifically for the original wearer.
A Growing Collection
Photo by Johan Stigholt, Medieval Museum
Currently, the exhibition features ten reconstructed dresses, with more to be added later this year. The project has drawn from medieval art and archaeological findings to ensure historical accuracy in pattern-making, fabric dyeing, and garment construction.
Åsa Marnell, museum director at the Swedish History Museum, explains, “I feel proud of our collaboration. That the Historical Museum can offer a place where the Medieval Museum can have its exhibition, when they are temporarily without a ‘home’ while waiting to move.”
For history and fashion enthusiasts alike, Medieval Fashion offers an immersive experience into the past, exploring the artistry and practicality of medieval dressmaking. Visitors can explore the exhibition at the Swedish History Museum in Stockholm before it concludes in 2026.
The Swedish History Museum is offering visitors a unique glimpse into medieval fashion with its ongoing exhibition, Medieval Fashion. Running until November 1, 2026, the exhibition showcases beautifully recreated women’s garments spanning from the 12th century to the early 16th century.
The exhibition is a collaboration between the Swedish History Museum and the Medieval Museum, the latter currently without a permanent home while awaiting relocation. Seamstress and historical clothing expert Åsa Dahlstedt, who contributed to the exhibition, highlights the universal nature of fashion:
There is a great interest in historical clothing, but we have never had an exhibition about it, so we thought it was time. Clothing is something very universal that everyone can relate to. All people need clothes to stay warm and there have always been people who have been interested in fashion at all times. We had the opportunity to be at the Historical Museum and we are happy about that.
Recreating the Textiles of the Past
The garments on display have been carefully reconstructed over four years, using period-accurate materials, dyes, and sewing techniques. The exhibition features a mix of simple, mended garments—showcasing how clothing was often repaired and reused—and more elaborate outfits worn by wealthier individuals. Wool was the most common fabric, while the affluent could afford silk details and finer textiles.
Dahlstedt explains that even wealthy merchant families, though below the nobility, could acquire high-quality fabrics. Linen or hemp was commonly used for undergarments, such as petticoats and shirts. The exhibition demonstrates the craftsmanship required in medieval clothing, as all garments were hand-sewn and tailored specifically for the original wearer.
A Growing Collection
Currently, the exhibition features ten reconstructed dresses, with more to be added later this year. The project has drawn from medieval art and archaeological findings to ensure historical accuracy in pattern-making, fabric dyeing, and garment construction.
Åsa Marnell, museum director at the Swedish History Museum, explains, “I feel proud of our collaboration. That the Historical Museum can offer a place where the Medieval Museum can have its exhibition, when they are temporarily without a ‘home’ while waiting to move.”
For history and fashion enthusiasts alike, Medieval Fashion offers an immersive experience into the past, exploring the artistry and practicality of medieval dressmaking. Visitors can explore the exhibition at the Swedish History Museum in Stockholm before it concludes in 2026.
Top Image: Ola Myrin, Historical Museum/SHM
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