What is a "hose"?

A hose is a leg covering worn by both men and women in the Middle Ages. Hoses were two pieces, one for each leg, tied at the waist with a belt or attached to a doublet. Over time, the hose evolved and became more form-fitting, and by the Renaissance period, they had developed into tight-fitting stockings. Hoses were typically made from wool, silk, or linen and were often decorated with intricate patterns or embroidery. They were an essential part of men's dress in Europe from the 14th to the 16th century and were often worn with short breeches and a tunic or doublet. For women, hoses were often worn under long skirts or gowns to provide warmth and coverage for the legs.