Viking Colors: What the Sagas Reveal

In many modern depictions, Vikings are often shown wearing muted browns and grays, living in a world of monochromatic bleakness.

Yet, if we dig into the rich tapestry of the Norse sagas and archaeological finds, a vastly different picture emerges. Vikings weren’t strangers to color. In fact, their clothing, ships, and everyday items often boasted vibrant hues derived from resources available in their environment or acquired through far-reaching trade routes.

The sagas, which form a significant part of medieval Icelandic literature, are more than just heroic tales and genealogies. They also contain scattered references to cloth, decorations, and personal adornments. When we piece these clues together, we find a treasure trove of information about how Vikings used color to express status, allegiance, and creativity.

Modern fashion enthusiasts seeking unique inspiration can look to Viking-era techniques for natural dyeing, layering, and bold color contrasts. This article dives into what the sagas reveal about the colors Vikings embraced and how those shades influenced their identity.

We’ll explore fourteen sections jam-packed with actionable insights, from dyeing methods to creative combinations you can adapt to your own wardrobe. Whether you’re a reenactor, a cosplayer, a designer, or simply a curious reader, you’ll find fresh perspective on color usage rooted in history yet highly relevant today.

Where Did Viking Colors Come From?

Hidden Clues in the Sagas

The sagas may not read like fashion magazines, but they often mention garments that catch the eye with striking descriptors. Whether it’s a richly colored cloak or a banner with a particular hue, these brief descriptions hint at a society that valued the visual impact of color. In some sagas, warriors are described wearing “scarlet cloaks” or tunics with “bands of bright trim,” suggesting that color served as a marker of status and identity.

Additionally, sagas sometimes specify the material associated with certain hues. For instance, references to cloaks that shimmer or garments described as “beaming like gold” suggest that Vikings leveraged metallic threads or bright yellow dyes for a regal flair. These subtle literary hints encourage us to reevaluate the popular assumption that Viking clothing was drab.

Trade Routes and Pigments

The Vikings traded far and wide, reaching as far as the Byzantine Empire, the Middle East, and North Africa. These extensive trade networks made it possible for them to acquire exotic pigments. Some of the most coveted dyes in the medieval world, like indigo and cochineal, came from distant lands. Although the sagas may not detail every trade transaction, the evidence of imported goods found in Viking graves suggests that they had access to vibrant and rare colors.

Such imports expanded their palette beyond what was possible in Scandinavia alone. Reds might have come from imported madder root or even from insects like cochineal (though more commonly associated with later periods). Blues could be created from imported woad or indigo. By blending local resources with foreign dyes, Vikings achieved an impressive spectrum that defies modern expectations.

Local Resources

Despite the allure of foreign dyes, the Vikings also made extensive use of local resources. Plants such as tansy, weld, and birch leaves provided them with shades of yellow and green. Lichens, mushrooms, and bark extracts contributed earthy tones, while iron-rich mud or mineral deposits yielded rust-like hues. These naturally occurring substances were processed using methods like soaking, boiling, and fermenting, ensuring the colors adhered to fibers for lasting vibrancy.

The Bold Shades of Viking Textiles

Wool and Linen

The most common Viking fabrics were wool and linen. Wool, in particular, took dyes very well and was a staple for outerwear and daily garments. Linen, made from flax, was often used for undergarments or summer wear, and while it can be more challenging to dye thoroughly, it still featured in the Viking color palette. Variations in the finishing techniques allowed creative layering: imagine a richly dyed wool cloak atop a simpler linen under-tunic.

For modern fashion enthusiasts, this same principle applies: combining different textile textures can give your outfit a depth reminiscent of Viking aesthetics. A heavy wool coat paired with a lighter linen shirt is a nod to this age-old layering approach.

Weaving Patterns

Color wasn’t solely about the dye; weaving patterns added visual intrigue. Viking weavers might introduce different colored threads in warp and weft to produce stripes, checks, or subtle motifs. Although direct references to weaving patterns in the sagas are limited, archaeological textiles with diamond twill or herringbone show that the Vikings appreciated intricate fabrics.

Recreating these patterns today can be a fun challenge. Even a simple scarf or shawl using a twill weave in contrasting colors can evoke a sense of Viking-inspired style. This interplay of thread color and weaving pattern exemplifies how the Vikings combined craftsmanship with aesthetics.

Embellishments and Trim

Many Viking garments featured embroidered or tablet-woven trim at cuffs, hemlines, and necklines. These embellishments often stood out in a contrasting color, highlighting the garment’s silhouette. Sagas sometimes emphasize the elaborate detail of a hero’s cloak or a lady’s dress, giving us a glimpse into the decorative potential of even a simple piece of cloth.

If you’re looking to adopt this approach, consider adding embroidered accents or trim in a bold color to your existing clothing. A neutral outfit instantly becomes more Viking-inspired with just a band of color around the sleeves or neckline.

Red: A Color of Status

Crafting Red Shades

Red is one of the most frequently mentioned colors in the sagas, often tied to warriors or figures of high status. While the sagas don’t provide step-by-step dye instructions, historians and reenactors have experimented with madder root to achieve vibrant red or orange-red shades. Imported dyes could produce even deeper reds, making it a symbolically potent color.

Modern crafters can use plant-based dyes—like madder or even beets—and achieve varying intensities of red, from subtle rose to deep crimson. The key is in controlling factors like temperature, mordants, and fiber type.

Red in Viking Garments

High-ranking Vikings might reserve bright red clothing for special occasions or war attire. It catches the eye, boosting the presence of a chieftain or champion. In the sagas, red cloaks and shields are mentioned frequently, suggesting that the color also held some measure of psychological advantage on the battlefield (although we’re avoiding direct color psychology, the strategic value is clear).

Using red in your modern wardrobe can create the same sense of boldness. A statement piece—like a red cape, jacket, or accessory—can transform an otherwise neutral ensemble, providing that Viking-inspired pop of color.

Red Highlights Today

For those looking to stand out, red is a natural choice. It pairs well with black, white, and even earthy greens or browns for a balanced look. If you’re shy about wearing too much color, try introducing red as an accent in a scarf, belt, or footwear. This subtle nod to Viking flair still delivers impact.

Blue: A Coveted Shade

Woad and Indigo

Blue was considered somewhat prestigious in many medieval cultures, including Viking society. While woad was locally available in parts of Europe, importing indigo could yield richer tones. Archaeological dye analysis of some Viking textiles shows evidence of indigo or a combination of woad and other agents that produced shades from sky-blue to deep navy.

If you want to experiment with blue dyes at home, woad kits are accessible online, and indigo kits are similarly popular among hobbyists. The process can be time-consuming—requiring fermentation and careful chemical balancing—but the results can be stunning.

Blue Fabrics in the Sagas

Although explicit mentions of blue clothing are rare in the sagas compared to red, the references that do exist usually denote individuals of significance or wealth. Blue could appear in cloaks, tunics, and even decorative banners. The hue conveyed a sense of distinction, partly due to the effort required to produce it.

In modern times, blue remains universally popular. Tapping into a Viking-inspired palette might lead you to layer different shades of blue—from pale periwinkle to royal blue—to mirror the rich variety the Vikings would have sought.

Styling Modern Blues

To recreate a Viking vibe, think about mixing textured fabrics in various blues. A denim jacket over a linen shirt, both in complementary shades of blue, can recall that layered dimension. Top it off with a lighter blue scarf or a bold blue belt to highlight the layered effect.

Green Hues and Earth Tones

Plant-Based Greens

Green dyes could be formed by combining yellow-producing plants with woad or indigo. Weld or tansy boiled to create yellows; then, secondary dips in a blue dye bath yielded green. This process was more complex than creating a single-hue dye, so greens might have been less common but definitely present.

For those who enjoy do-it-yourself projects, experimenting with over-dyeing is a fantastic way to achieve layered greens. A first pass with a yellow dye, followed by immersion in a blue vat, can mimic what Viking dyers might have done hundreds of years ago.

Everyday Greens

Green shades might not be as historically glorified as red or blue, but they were practical. Clothing featuring greens and earthy browns blended well with forested landscapes, which could have had functional advantages during travel or hunting. Sagas occasionally hint at garments that seamlessly matched the outdoor environment.

Integrating green into your modern wardrobe can be as straightforward as choosing a forest-green tunic, a moss-colored sweater, or olive pants. These tones pair beautifully with neutral colors like beige, tan, and even black, creating a balanced and natural look.

Styling Earth Tones

The Vikings had access to a variety of earth tones, from soft browns to muted grays. Combining these with subtle greens provides a cohesive palette that feels grounded and robust. You could layer a brown leather vest over a sage-green shirt, for example, for a nod to Viking-inspired earthy style that remains fashionable today.

Yellow, Gold, and Light Tones

Dyers’ Favorites

Weld, tansy, and birch leaves were some of the Viking-era staples for obtaining yellow dyes. These plants were relatively abundant in Scandinavian regions, making yellows a more accessible color than some of the deeper, rarer hues. The resulting shades could range from pale lemon to a rich, golden tone, depending on the dyer’s skill and the length of immersion.

For modern crafters, experimenting with these dyes is relatively straightforward. Many craft stores or online suppliers sell dried weld or tansy. By varying mordants—like alum or iron—you can shift the shade’s intensity, giving you a palette of yellows that spans light, bright, and slightly olive tones.

Symbolic Uses in Sagas

While sagas don’t delve deeply into the symbolism of yellow, they do occasionally mention garments or shields described as gleaming or golden. These references might imply decorative elements with metallic thread or paint, as well as bright yellow fabric. In a culture that prized metals like gold and silver, a radiant yellow or gold-like hue could serve as a stand-in for luxury.

If you’re looking to highlight Viking aesthetics in modern wear, consider a gold-toned accessory—a belt buckle, a statement necklace, or even metallic thread embroidery. Such subtle details can elevate an outfit and evoke the sense of opulence the Vikings associated with precious metals.

Incorporating Light Tones

Light, undyed linen or wool in creamy white or pale beige also appears in Viking-era clothing. Sagas might mention a “linen undershirt” or a cloak of uncolored wool. Pairing these lighter tones with bold trims or layered beneath more vibrant pieces creates a dynamic interplay of color and neutrals—perfect for a balanced modern outfit.

Contrasting Dark Shades

The Role of Blacks and Grays

While the Vikings had access to bold colors, they also employed dark or neutral shades. Black could be achieved via iron-rich dyes or extended dye baths in tannin-based substances. Gray might come from mixing wool in its natural state—some sheep breeds have gray or black wool—making it less labor-intensive.

These dark tones were ideal for everyday work attire or travel garments that needed to hide stains or dirt more effectively than light fabrics. In modern fashion, black and gray remain staples. Combining them with bright Viking-inspired colors can create a striking contrast.

Dark Cloaks and Coats

The sagas often reference dark cloaks—sometimes black or charcoal gray. These cloaks offered a practical advantage in colder climates and likely served as a blank canvas against which any colored embroidery or brooches would really stand out. Picture a gray wool cloak with a vibrant red or gold trim. The combination is timeless.

For your current wardrobe, invest in a dark overcoat or cloak-like piece. Accessorize with a colorful scarf, brooch, or even Viking-inspired pins to tap into that centuries-old tradition of dynamic contrast.

Layering with Neutrals

Neutrals like gray, black, and brown provide the foundation for layering. Add color strategically in the form of an undershirt, belt, or cloak, and you’ll have an outfit that balances practicality with a flair that harks back to Viking attire. This approach is particularly useful if you’re new to bold color usage, offering a stepping stone toward more adventurous combinations.

Decorative Patterns in Sagas

Colorful Banners

Sagas often mention banners and pennants carried by Viking leaders. These flags were sometimes emblazoned with animals or mythological symbols, often rendered in contrasting colors. The vibrancy of these banners underscored the authority or ferocity of the bearer.

In modern adaptations—especially for events like reenactments or festivals—constructing a banner or flag in bold Viking-inspired colors can be a dramatic focal point. A gold raven on a crimson background or a silver serpent on navy cloth instantly channels those ancient signals of identity.

Shield Designs

Shields found in Viking graves or depicted in iconography sometimes featured painted designs. While we don’t have sagas enumerating color-by-color instructions, we do see references to shields described as “bright,” “gleaming,” or “blood-red.” These descriptions imply that Vikings recognized the visual impact of well-chosen colors in battle.

Whether you’re a historical reenactor or just love unique home décor, a hand-painted shield can be a conversation piece. Use historically accurate pigments or modern paints but keep the bold hues front and center.

Styled Tunics and Cloaks

For clothing, sagas might describe tunics with colorfully woven hems or cloaks featuring geometric patterns. Though we lack detailed Viking “fashion magazines,” the references that exist point to a culture that appreciated thoughtful design. Incorporating geometric or Norse-inspired motifs in bright threads is an excellent way to bring a dash of saga authenticity to any modern garment.

The Role of Accessories

Brooches and Pins

Viking women often used brooches to fasten their aprons or cloaks. Men might use a cloak pin or ring brooch. These items could be crafted in bronze, silver, or gold, sometimes featuring colored enamel or inset stones. The sagas occasionally mention eye-catching brooches that set an individual apart at gatherings.

In a modern context, a brooch or pin in a Viking-inspired design can instantly transform a coat or jacket. Opt for items that incorporate colorful stones or enameling to echo the brightness of Viking accessories.

Belts and Buckles

Leather belts were practical, but the Vikings also saw them as an opportunity for self-expression. Ornate buckles might feature intricate knotwork designs. While not always color-forward, some buckles included enamel details or metal inlays that popped against a plain belt strap.

If you want a subtle nod to Viking style, invest in a belt with decorative metalwork. Even if the belt is brown or black leather, a finely detailed buckle can evoke the spirit of Viking craftsmanship, especially if you add a small dash of color or a polished metallic finish.

Jewelry with Gemstones

Necklaces, arm rings, and other jewelry items sometimes included semi-precious stones such as amber, garnet, or quartz. Amber, in particular, is associated with the Baltic region and features heavily in Scandinavian artifacts. Its warm golden hue or deeper cognac tone added color to Viking adornments.

Consider adding an amber pendant to your accessory collection for a distinctly Viking flair. Its natural color radiates warmth and pairs well with both modern and historical-inspired outfits.

Adapting Viking Color Schemes to Modern Fashion

Bold Contrasts

Viking clothing thrived on striking contrasts: a bright cloak against a neutral underlayer, a colorful trim on a natural wool tunic, or a rich dye offset by earthy brown. Apply this principle to your wardrobe by selecting two main contrasting colors—like navy and gold or red and gray—and building an outfit around them.

Subtle Harmony

Not everyone wants to go bold. A more subtle harmony of greens, browns, and grays can still channel Viking sensibilities. Layering various earth tones with just one accent color—perhaps a muted burgundy or a soft moss green—can be enough to convey a nod to the old Norse aesthetic without drawing all the attention.

Adding Modern Twists

While honoring historical inspiration is key, don’t be afraid to add your own modern twist. Metallic accents, updated silhouettes, or contemporary fabrics can mesh seamlessly with Viking-inspired colors. A sleek leather jacket in a distressed brown or a denim vest dyed with natural indigo can tie together the old and the new, creating a hybrid style that stands out.

Color Maintenance Then and Now

Viking-Era Laundry Hacks

Maintaining dyed garments required some knowledge. Sagas might not give us “laundry day” stories, but we can guess Vikings took care not to over-scrub or over-boil prized garments, as these actions could strip color. Instead, they might air clothes out, spot-clean as needed, and occasionally re-dye items to refresh their vibrancy.

Modern Care for Natural Dyes

If you decide to dye your clothes at home using natural methods, you’ll need a gentle approach to washing and drying. Avoid harsh detergents and high heat. Opt for mild soap or specialized detergent, wash in cooler water, and air-dry when possible. This helps preserve the natural dye so you can continue enjoying the color’s rich character.

Prolonging Vibrancy

For a modern spin, some people use vinegar rinses or specialized fabric sealants. These can help lock in color and prevent premature fading. Test small swatches first to ensure you’re getting the results you want, as different fabrics and dyes can react unpredictably.

Viking Color Combinations and Mixes

Primary and Secondary Blends

The Vikings may not have had our modern color wheel, but they understood the basics of combining primary and secondary hues to produce desired results. Red and blue could create purples, though that might be a more complex process involving multiple dye baths. Yellow and blue made green, as discussed earlier, while red and yellow could yield a range of sunset-like tones.

Multi-Dye Techniques

Some advanced dyers used multi-step processes—dyeing a piece in one color, then immersing it again in another dye bath. This is how you’d get more nuanced or compound shades. Although sagas don’t detail these techniques, archaeological studies of fabric fragments show evidence of layered dyeing.

In your modern dye experiments, blend or layer two or more natural dyes. You might create a marbled effect by tying off sections of fabric or achieve gradient colors by immersing only parts of the cloth for varying lengths of time. Such creativity echoes the Viking spirit of making the most of available resources.

Unusual Pairings

While color rules may have been looser in the Viking Age than in modern styling, you can still learn from them. Pair softer earth tones (olive, brown, or gray) with a vibrant accent like a crimson trim or a deep navy scarf. Experiment with layering different dyed garments to see which combos resonate with you, tapping into that sense of discovery that defined the Viking approach to color.

Viking-Inspired Event and Costume Ideas

Festival Garb

If you’re attending a Renaissance fair, Viking festival, or cosplay event, consider making a full Viking-inspired ensemble. Layer a brightly dyed tunic under a more neutral cloak or incorporate elaborate trim and embroidered motifs. Add period-appropriate accessories like a brooch or belt with a colorful buckle.

Home Décor Inspiration

Why limit Viking colors to clothing? You can use them for home décor as well. Consider a tapestry in earthy hues with bold accent colors or cushions embroidered with Norse knotwork in bright threads. A simple wool throw dyed in deep indigo can bring warmth and a historical flair to any living space.

Modern-Medieval Fusion

If you’re drawn to Viking colors but still want a contemporary look, try a modern-medieval fusion. Pair a short tunic-style top in a saturated color with slim-fit jeans, or wear a form-fitting dress in a muted earth tone trimmed with a bright embroidered edge. This blend can be both comfortable and visually striking.

Conclusion

The Viking Age was far from a monochromatic era. The sagas and archaeological evidence reveal a colorful tapestry of reds, blues, greens, yellows, and earthy browns and grays.

Far from being an afterthought, color was woven into Viking identity—reflecting status, creativity, and cultural values. For modern enthusiasts, these hues and the techniques used to achieve them can inspire clothing, accessories, and even interior design.

By drawing on the knowledge hidden in the sagas—cross-referencing them with archaeological finds—you can infuse your own style with the vitality and richness of the Viking palette.

Whether you choose to go bold with red and gold or subtle with green and brown, the key is to embrace the spirit of experimentation and craft that defined Norse culture. Let these ancient shades guide you to new creative horizons in your wardrobe and beyond.

Summary Table

FAQ

Q1: Did Vikings really use vibrant colors, or is that a modern interpretation?
A1: Archaeological evidence and saga references confirm that Vikings had access to a range of bold and vibrant hues. They used natural dyes from plants, minerals, and insects. While some colors were more common than others, it’s clear that Viking clothing was far from drab.

Q2: How can I recreate Viking-era dyeing techniques today?
A2: Start with natural dye kits or local plants like weld (for yellow) or woad (for blue). Remember to use a mordant like alum to help the dye adhere to fibers. Experimentation is key—different temperatures, soak times, and fabric types will alter your results.

Q3: Were certain colors reserved for the elite?
A3: Certain shades—especially bright reds and deep blues—were harder to produce and may have signified wealth or status. However, there’s no strict evidence of rigid sumptuary laws preventing commoners from wearing these colors. It was more about availability and cost.

Q4: Can I mix Viking-inspired colors with my modern wardrobe?
A4: Absolutely. Consider layering different fabrics and adding bold trim or accessories in Viking-inspired hues. A neutral base (gray, black, or brown) with a pop of red, green, or blue can be both stylish and historically evocative.

Q5: What if I only want subtle hints of Viking color?
A5: Use smaller accents such as a brooch, tablet-woven belt, or embroidery around the neckline of a garment. Opt for earth tones with a single accent hue like amber, burgundy, or mustard yellow for a softer take on Viking color schemes.

By blending historical insights from the sagas with modern fashion sense, you can create a wardrobe—or even a home environment—that celebrates the striking colors of the Viking Age.

From the lustrous red cloaks to the richly dyed blues, these hues connect us to a culture that prized craftsmanship, creativity, and the powerful statement color can make. Embrace your inner Viking and let these ancient shades guide you to a more dynamic, vibrant style.

Brenda Tillman

Brenda Tillman is a color maestro who brings artistic brilliance to every piece she crafts. Passionate about imaginative expressions, she illuminates the world of fashion with her expert guidance on shades and combinations. Beyond her writings, Brenda is a culinary enthusiast and a global traveler, infusing her work with diverse insights. Her unique touch transforms simple color choices into art.

Reviewed By: Joanna Perez and Anna West
Edited By: Lenny Terra
Fact Checked By: Matthew Mansour
Photos Taken or Curated By: Matthew Mansour