Pilgrim Clothing Guidelines

Period-Correct Clothing for Historical Reenactments

Discover how to create historically accurate Pilgrim clothing for events and reenactments. Our guidelines help you dress in period-correct attire that educates the public about the passengers on the Mayflower through visual display and communication.

Guidelines for Period-Correct Clothing

Creating historically accurate 17th century Pilgrim attire

In the early 17th century, clothing would have been made by many hands, thus making historically accurate clothing in the 21st century for a Pilgrim can often be a challenge! The following resources have been provided to help guide those interested in acquiring an outfit or having one professionally made.

The clothing mission is to educate the public about the passengers on the Mayflower through the visual display and communication of period-correct costumes and accessories.

Although we do not know specifically what everyone wore, research has proven that the Pilgrims wore color and their varied clothing represented different professions and trades. The guideline resources show some of the variations and are provided to help generate your own creativity.

Clothing Resources & Guides

Comprehensive guides for creating authentic Pilgrim attire

Pilgrim Women's Clothing

Complete guide to getting dressed in the early 17th century, including proper layering, fabrics, and accessories for women's period attire.

Guide Women's Attire

Pilgrim Men's Clothing

Voyage of Hope 1620 2020 men's clothing guide covering proper garments, accessories, and period-correct styling for male reenactors.

Guide Men's Attire

Historical Clothing Patterns

VOH Historical Clothing Patterns - authentic patterns and templates for creating period-correct garments from scratch.

Patterns Sewing

Clothing & Accessory Sources

VOH Clothing and Accessory Source List - comprehensive directory of suppliers and vendors for period clothing and accessories.

Directory Suppliers

Converting Chukka Boots

Guide by James B. Battles, Commander Mayflower Guard, on converting modern chukka boots into period-correct lachet shoes.

Tutorial Footwear

Historical Context

Understanding 17th century clothing and its significance

Clothing in Early 17th Century

The Pilgrims' clothing reflected their social status, profession, and the practical needs of their journey and new life in America. Research has shown that contrary to popular belief, the Pilgrims wore colorful clothing, not just black and white.

Colorful Attire

Pilgrims wore a variety of colors, not just the stereotypical black and white

Professional Representation

Clothing varied based on profession and trade, showing social status

Handmade Quality

All clothing was made by hand, requiring skill and time to create

Period clothing detail from Rose Parade float

Need Help with Your Outfit?

Contact our Clothing Coordinator for guidance

Clothing Coordinator

Jane Wong, our 2020 Pilgrim Clothing Coordinator, is available to answer questions about historically accurate clothing.

Email: Please email with "Historically Accurate Clothing" in the subject heading

Services: Guidance on patterns, sources, and period-correct styling