Witches Shop
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Delivery time: 2 - 3 working days* (US - int. shipments may differ)
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Delivery time: 2 - 3 working days* (US - int. shipments may differ)
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Delivery time: 2 - 3 working days* (US - int. shipments may differ)
- Available
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Delivery time: 2 - 3 working days* (US - int. shipments may differ)
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Witches' Shop: Costumes, Accessories and Spiritual Items
We encounter the figure of the witch at medieval markets, in live-action role-playing, at carnivals and in spiritual circles – and depending on the context, very different equipment, clothing and accessories are required. This category brings together everything you need for a convincing portrayal of a witch or for spiritual practice: from historically inspired robes to incense, rune stones and herbal accessories.
Witch: Origin, history and significance of the figure
The word ‘witch’ derives from the Old High German ‘hagazussa’ – a term meaning ‘she who sits on the border’ or ‘fence-rider’. It referred to a person who acted as a mediator between the world of the living and the otherworldly realm. In folklore, those considered witches were often women with knowledge of herbs, midwifery skills or prophetic abilities – someone whom the community both needed and feared.
The historical witch craze of the 15th to 18th centuries, during which thousands of people were persecuted and executed, has only a limited connection to these folkloric figures. It was a product of theological, legal and social processes – not evidence of a real counter-culture.
Grammatically, the word ‘witch’ is feminine. Historically, however, men were also referred to as witches or sorcerers and persecuted. In LARP and modern fantasy literature, the figure of the witch has long been open to all genders.
Famous witch figures from myth and literature
The three witches from Macbeth
The three Fates in Shakespeare’s Macbeth – “When shall we three meet again?” – are arguably the most famous trio of witches in world literature. They prophesy, seduce and drive the plot forward without intervening themselves. The number three has symbolic significance in folk magic, as does the number 13, which is regarded as a witch’s number in Wicca and folk belief.
Baba Yaga & Circe
Baba Yaga from Slavic folklore is an ambivalent guardian of the forest – at times a helpful advisor, at others a menacing foe. Circe from Greek mythology transforms humans into animals and is regarded as one of the oldest sorceresses in European tradition. Both figures share a power over nature and transformation.
Walpurgis & Walpurgis Night
Saint Walpurga was an 8th-century Christian missionary – her feast day on 1 May merged with pre-Christian spring rituals. Walpurgis Night (30 April) became the witches’ festival of folk tradition. Walpurga herself was not a witch – but her name became synonymous with the biggest witches’ festival of the year.
Witch costumes for different occasions: medieval markets, LARP and fancy dress
Anyone wishing to portray a wise herbalist or healer at a medieval market should opt for natural-looking medieval attire for women: a linen undergarment, a woollen overgarment in dark green, brown or black, paired with a woollen hooded cloak. A belt pouch or a herb pouch on a leather belt is a must. The colour scheme is based on plant dyes – dark red, ink blue and earthy brown are historically documented and create a harmonious effect at the market.
In live-action role-playing, the witch character can be more fairy-tale-like: wide sleeves, hooded cloaks, rune stones on the belt, and incense as props. Here, historical accuracy matters less than a coherent, recognisable overall look. LARP clothing for women made of cotton is easier to care for and cheaper than wool, but offers a similar look. Brooches, medieval jewellery and leather bags complete the look.
For carnival, Walpurgis Night or Halloween, recognisability is key: a dark dress, a pointed medieval hat, a dark cloak. Those who don’t want to resort to disposable items will find a more durable alternative in a historically inspired medieval costume – one that can also be combined in various ways if needed.
Materials at a glance: What feels like what?
| Material | Suitability | Properties |
|---|---|---|
| Wool | Historical | Thermoregulating, breathable, robust – ideal for autumn and spring events. Hand wash or gentle cycle recommended. |
| Linen | Historical | Cool and breathable for summer markets. Softens with wear. Iron whilst damp; do not tumble dry. |
| Cotton | LARP | Easy-care, machine-washable, affordable. Less breathable than linen, but comfortable – well-suited for beginners. |
| Polyester / Blended fabric | Costume | Inexpensive to produce. Sufficient for short appearances – at long markets or army camps, you can clearly feel the difference compared to natural fibres. |
Those who value authenticity opt for natural fibres. Linen still breathes even at 30 degrees; synthetics trap heat and are noticeably more uncomfortable on long market days. Vehi Mercatus’s own brand deliberately uses only cotton, linen and wool – no blended fabrics.
Incense and spiritual accessories: From folk medicine to Wiccan practice
Incense burning is one of the oldest practices in human cultures. Frankincense, myrrh and sage were used in sacred contexts in antiquity; in European folk medicine, bundles of herbs served to purify rooms and ward off illness. At medieval markets and military encampments today, incense primarily creates atmosphere – the scent of frankincense or herbal blends is an integral part of the market experience.
In the context of Wicca and modern nature spirituality, incense burning has a different meaning: it accompanies rituals, marks seasonal festivals such as Imbolc, Litha or Samhain, and is consciously used as part of a spiritual practice. Here, pure resins (frankincense, copal, benzoin), dried herbs and incense blends, as well as incense sticks, are in demand.
Incense accessories include incense bowls, fireproof mats, charcoal discs and incense burners – all available under ‘Incense Accessories’. Rune stones are particularly well-suited as a classic accessory with a dual function – spiritual and as a LARP prop. Incense sets for the Twelve Days of Christmas and spiritual incense burning are also a useful addition.
Witchcraft equipment by budget and purpose
A dark dress or overdress, a simple belt and a cloak are enough for a convincing appearance at Walpurgis Night, Halloween or Carnival. Add a medieval hat and you’re quickly in character. A simple pouch or belt bag rounds off the look with little effort.
For role-play, it’s worth investing a bit more: a linen or cotton underskirt, an outer dress in dark shades, plus a wool hooded cloak. Belt bags and herb pouches, a small incense set and rune stones make the character ready for play. Medieval jewellery such as brooches or amulets add visual flair.
Those who take seasonal festivals or spiritual rituals more seriously will need, above all, high-quality consumables: pure resins, herbal blends, incense accessories and candle holders. When it comes to clothing, historical accuracy is less of a priority – atmosphere and ritual matter more.
Whether you want to embody a wise herbalist at a medieval market, bring a witch character to life in LARP, or accompany spiritual rituals with high-quality incense – browse through the categories and put together your own personal witch’s kit.
Frequently asked questions
That depends on the occasion. For Carnival, Halloween or Walpurgis Night, a dark dress, a cloak and a belt will suffice. If you’re playing a witch character in LARP, you’ll also need sturdy clothing made from natural fibres and suitable accessories such as belt pouches, rune stones or incense. For spiritual or Wiccan practice, incense herbs, resins and incense accessories take centre stage – clothing plays a secondary role there.
The article is ‘die Hexe’ (feminine). The plural is ‘die Hexen’. The declension follows the weak feminine pattern: ‘der Hexe’ (genitive/dative), ‘die Hexe’ (accusative). The number traditionally associated with witches is 13 – it is regarded as the witch’s number in folklore and Wicca.
The word ‘witch’ is grammatically feminine. Historically, however, men were also referred to as ‘wizards’ or ‘sorcerers’ and persecuted in witch trials – the term was never restricted exclusively to women. In LARP and modern fantasy literature, the figure of the witch has long been open to all genders. The male equivalent in German is ‘Hexer’ or ‘Zauberer’.
The most famous trio of witches comes from Shakespeare’s Macbeth: the three Fates who prophesy the protagonist’s destiny. Other well-known figures include Baba Yaga from Slavic mythology – an ambivalent guardian of the forest – and Circe from Greek mythology, who is considered one of Europe’s oldest sorceresses. In folklore, Walpurgis Night (named after Saint Walpurga) is also closely associated with the figure of the witch.
For the medieval market, natural fibres are recommended: wool for cooler seasons (keeps you warm, breathable), linen for summer (cool and comfortable even in the heat). Cotton is an easy-care alternative that is well suited to beginners. Costumes made of polyester or blended fabrics are cheaper, but significantly less comfortable on long market days – the difference compared to natural fibres is noticeable.