Folk Costume

Estonian folk costume is our ancestors' historical clothing that has developed over the centuries according to the possibilities, needs and customs.

The development of Estonian folk costume was, over the centuries, influenced by the fashions of the upper classes and the traditional costumes of neighbouring countries, however, all foreign influences were adjusted to one’s taste and tradition (Estonian National Museum). Clothes were basically made of homespun woollen or linen fabric. In the 17th century, knitted pieces were added to the clothing.
Most of the clothes remained undyed: linen garments were bleached white, woollen outer garments were mainly sheep-brown or black. Other tones were achieved with herbal dyes.