Eccentricity or political protest?
Pirate fashion during the golden age of piracy (1690-1730) blended pragmatism and ostentatious appearance, far from the images conveyed by fiction. Pirates were above all sailors, and their clothing reflected their daily lives at sea. Linen shirts, woven pants and scarves were popular choices, especially in warmer climates. These loose-fitting, hard-wearing garments, often made from linen, wool or poplin, provided comfort and protection from the elements. For colder climates, woollen jackets or vests completed the outfit.
The colors worn by pirates were often sober and utilitarian: blue, beige, gray and dark green dominated. Plain garments were the most common, but it was not uncommon to see stripes, check patterns and occasional touches of bright colors such as scarlet or yellow. Pirates often added these touches with colorful silk scarves or sashes, marking a contrast with the simplicity of the rest of their attire.
At sea, practicality remained paramount. Most pirates didn't wear shoes on board, as going barefoot made for easier climbing and a better grip on deck. A scarf, often tied over the forehead, prevented sweat from dripping into the eyes during maneuvers. Woolen or leather caps were also popular, especially in cold, wet weather.
Although the tricorne is often associated with pirates in the collective imagination, in reality it was impractical on the high seas, risking blowing off in the wind. It was worn more by “gentrified” pirates and captains such as Bonnet and Kidd.
Captain Kidd
Pirate captains were distinguished by far more refined outfits than their crews. The latter also wore long, dark woollen jackets, decorated with brass buttons, sometimes reaching to the knee. These garments served not only to protect them from the wind, but also to show off their power. Some captains went even further into extravagance, opting for colorful silk pieces, feathered hats and other accessories to impress their crew and their victims.
Bartholomew roberts
Figures such as Bartholomew Roberts, Stede Bonnet, Captain Kidd and Blackbeard were particularly renowned for their striking appearance. Bartholomew Roberts wore a feathered hat, while Stede Bonnet and Captain Kidd wore large hats, symbols of prestige. Blackbeard, meanwhile, reinforced his fearsome image by hanging lit wicks under his hat during battles.
Blackbeard
Fashion also served as a means of political protest. Dressing extravagantly, with colorful garments and flamboyant accessories, allowed pirates to taunt nobles and wealthy merchants. Wigs, very expensive at the time, were a status symbol. Some pirates went so far as to cover themselves in jewels, and tattoos were commonly considered marks of bravery.
So pirate fashion, while often dictated by necessity, was also a means of displaying power, success and defiance of social convention.