For those who admire the timeless allure of the Middle Ages, the right accessories are not just decorative—they are essential for authenticity, function, and historical immersion. Whether you’re a collector, historian, performer, or merchant, equipping yourself with the finest medieval accessories enhances both your display and experience. We present the top 10 must-have medieval accessories that no enthusiast should be without.
1. Leather Belt Pouches – The Medieval Carry-All
A true medieval wardrobe is incomplete without a genuine leather belt pouch. These versatile companions were the medieval answer to modern pockets—used to carry coins, tools, fire starters, or herbs. Crafted from vegetable-tanned leather, many feature brass buckles or hand-stitched closures, providing both utility and period accuracy.
- Ideal for festivals, fairs, and historical settings
- Common styles include kidney-shaped, flap-top, and drawstring pouches
- Often decorated with etched patterns, studs, or embroidered sigils
2. Medieval Drinking Horns – A Toast to the Past
Raise a buffalo or ox horn high, and you’ll feel the spirit of the Norse, Celts, and Franks flowing through you. Drinking horns were used across Europe, from Viking longships to feasting halls in Norman castles. Today’s best replicas are hand-polished, sealed for modern use, and come with leather holders or wooden stands.
- Perfect for ale, mead, and ceremonial purposes
- Capacities range from 150ml to 750ml
- Natural textures vary, ensuring each horn is unique
3. Steel Sword Frogs – Battle-Ready Belt Attachments
No knight, mercenary, or foot soldier would be seen without a sword frog—the leather accessory that secures a sword to one’s belt. Look for models that are reinforced with rivets, adjustable to fit scabbards, and designed for right or left-handed draw.
- Often available in black or brown leather
- Can hold longswords, arming swords, or even daggers
- Essential for reenactments, duels, or parades
4. Chainmail Coifs and Mittens – Defense and Drama
Chainmail is the heartbeat of medieval warfare attire. For non-armor enthusiasts, a mail coif or pair of mittens adds an incredible layer of detail without full encumbrance. Composed of riveted or butted rings, these pieces offer both visual appeal and basic protection.
- Typically made from mild steel or aluminum for lighter wear
- Ring types include round, flat, and dome-riveted
- Often worn under helmets or over gambesons
5. Iron Cooking Tripods – Medieval Culinary Staples
Every authentic medieval camp needs a forged iron tripod. Suspend your cauldron or kettle over an open flame, just as they did in the 13th century. These tripods should be hand-forged, collapsible for transport, and capable of supporting heavy iron cookware.
- Use with cast iron cauldrons, grills, or fire hooks
- Adds dramatic realism to outdoor camps or roleplay settings
- Often paired with medieval-style pot forks and ladles
6. Padded Arming Caps – Headgear Beneath the Helm
An indispensable item for those donning steel helmets is the arming cap—a padded linen or cotton layer designed to absorb impact and reduce chafing. Worn by knights and men-at-arms, these caps are both practical and historically accurate.
- Typically filled with natural cotton or wool padding
- Secured with chin ties or leather cords
- Available in neutral tones like ecru, black, or brown
7. Medieval Belt Buckles – Small Detail, Big Impact
The humble belt buckle, when designed authentically, transforms a costume or ensemble. Brass, iron, and nickel-plated buckles replicate the style of various regions and centuries. These are often found on reenactment belts, gambeson closures, or shoe straps.
- Choose shapes like square, round, or D-shaped
- Common sizes: 20mm to 40mm
- Some include matching strap ends or decorative rivets
8. Horn Combs – A Touch of Elegance and Utility
In the medieval world, hygiene mattered. Horn combs were used by nobles and peasants alike for grooming hair and beards. These elegant tools are carved from natural ox or cow horn, often polished to a gleaming finish, and are durable enough for modern use.
- Double-sided or single row designs
- Lengths typically range from 4” to 6”
- Suitable for display or personal grooming
9. Brass or Iron Hooks – The Medieval Wall Accessory
Functional and decorative, forged hooks were commonplace in homes, taverns, and armories. Whether mounted on wooden beams or stone walls, these hooks hold lanterns, satchels, weapons, or cloaks with ease. The best pieces are hand-forged, showcasing natural hammer marks and medieval charm.
- Styles include S-hooks, curved wall hooks, and double-pronged designs
- Available in sets for storage or hanging displays
- Complements interiors styled after castles or mead halls
10. Wax-Sealed Scrolls and Quills – Relics of Written Legacy
For scribes and scholars, writing accessories such as quills, ink pots, and sealed scrolls bring the world of medieval literacy to life. Authentic replicas of parchment scrolls, complete with red wax seals or ribbon ties, make stunning display pieces or props.
- Quills made from goose, turkey, or swan feathers
- Often paired with brass or ceramic inkwells
- Great for fantasy roleplay or historical displays
Build Your Medieval Arsenal With Authentic Precision
From the clang of steel to the soft fold of hand-sewn leather, every piece of a medieval enthusiast’s collection matters. Each accessory listed above serves not only as a tool or decoration but as a window into the craftsmanship, lifestyle, and spirit of the Middle Ages.
Whether you’re assembling a combat-ready ensemble, decorating a period-inspired study, or curating an authentic trade stall, these must-have accessories offer unmatched realism and character.
For best results, seek out items made with historically accurate materials—such as solid brass, forged iron, and natural horn or bone—and always prioritize artisan-made products over mass-produced replicas. Your medieval legacy deserves nothing less.