How it was made: Undergarments
Hello Paxians!
Ever wondered how medieval artifacts, clothing, or tools made their way into the world of Pax Dei? You are in the right place!
In this episode of "How Was It Made?", we explore something intimate, functional, and surprisingly adventurous: 14th-century undergarments.
The undergarments in Pax Dei don't quite resemble those you wear today. That's because, in the 14th century, boxer briefs and brassieres were not part of everyday life.
Instead, people relied on more straightforward, less glamorous options: subligars and strophiums. Here's a look at how these historical garments came to life in the world of Pax Dei.
What Were Subligars and Strophiums?
Subligars were a type of loincloth worn by both men and women. Typically crafted from linen, they were designed to be tied around the waist and wrapped around the groin. This straightforward design made them practical for physical activities and labor.
Women also wore the strophium — a simple breast-binding garment consisting of a strip of cloth wrapped tightly around the upper body to provide support during strenuous activities.
These garments weren't worn all the time. They were reserved for sports, labor, or combat. In fact, even before the medieval era, some Roman gladiators would enter the arena dressed in nothing but a subligar, ready for battle.
Bringing 14th-Century Undergarments to Life
Recreating historically accurate undergarments in Pax Dei was a challenge we embraced wholeheartedly. We wanted the details to be authentic, right down to how the garments were worn.
Attention to Detail
Fabric and Fit: Since the subligars and the strophiums were made of linen and used no modern stitching techniques, we ensured that each fold and wrap in the fabric was consistent with historical practices.
No Stitches: In the 14th century, these garments weren't sewn together like modern clothing. Instead, they were folded, tied, and wrapped. This meant we had to be meticulous about avoiding seams and stitches in our models.
Functionality: We designed undergarments in Pax Dei with a focus on their functional nature. The simplicity of the subligar and strophium allowed for ease of movement, reflecting their use during labor or combat scenarios.
Why Does It Matter?
We believe that even the smallest details contribute to building a rich, immersive world. By including historically accurate undergarments, we add another layer of authenticity to the experience. These aren't just cosmetic choices; they're a window into the daily lives of people who lived in medieval times.
So, the next time you spot a character sporting a subligar or a strophium, remember the craftsmanship, history, and attention to detail that brought these garments to life.
That's how we made undergarments for Pax Dei — true to history, true to underwear.
Pax vobiscum, The Mainframe Team