Nicola here, wondering if there are any fashion items from centuries gone by that are so outrageous they could never make a come back. Last week I read a very interesting article about the hot new trend for feather hair extensions. Peacock feathers are especially popular and as the trend grows from simple feathers to grand pieces, I'm reminded of those extraordinary creations made with ostrich plumes that ladies wore in the 18th century. It might not be long before we see those again.
But surely there are some things that could never come back into fashion. Take the codpiece, for 
example. A codpiece is defined as a pouch attached to a man's breeches or close-fitting hose to cover the genitals, worn in the 15th and 16th centuries. Here is a picture of Henry VIII wearing one of his; this is relatively modest. There are some truly frightening images out there.
Originally the codpiece was designed specifically to hide the genitals when a man was mounting his horse. It’s a pouch, richly embroidered and lavishly upholstered, its shape deliberately designed to suggest virility. The codpiece was not anatomically correct (!) but the large size was intended to intimidate other men rather than impress women. A huge codpiece suggested that here was a man who could stand up and sport a pair of well-filled hose. Not only that, but it had a practical use as well. A man could keep his keys or coins in it.
Inevitably, there are records of men childishly competing to see who could create the best codpiece shadow until this was banned after ladies complained of what a chronicler of the time called "a very long and lewd codpiece of a barbarous and very impolite shape.” The codpiece died out in the 16th century but I doubt it's ever going to be forgotten.
The Ruff
The ruff evolved as an item of clothing designed to protect the gown or doublet from becoming dirty. It was a universal item of clothing worn by men, women and children. The largest ruffs, cartwheel ruffs, were a foot or more wide and required a wire frame to keep them stiff. Basically the rule was the more aristocratic you were, the bigger your ruff. Some noblemen even wore several at once, which must have been both hot and heavy.
Here is an image of Sir Walter Raleigh wearing his gorgeous lace embroidered ruff. He even has matching lace in his hair – and he still manages to look very manly.
In England the ruff went out of fashion by the end of the 16th century but in Holland they remained in fashion until into the 17th. They are still optional wear for choirboys and for Danish bishops.
The pannier
From the early 16th century, when Catherine of Aragon introduced the Spanish farthingale into England, 
women wore a variety of hooped undergarments to support their skirts in a fashionable shape. In the 18th century the pannier, named after the wicker baskets slung on each side of a pack animal, was all the rage. Panniers were side hoops designed to leave the skirts relatively flat at the front and back whilst extending the width. By the mid 18th century a woman in a fashionable pannier took up three times the amount of space a man did with some panniers extending several feet to the side. By the late 18th century however they were only worn on very formal occasions. The pannier wasn’t out of favour for long, though. By the 1820s hooped undergarments were making a comeback in the shape of the crinoline and these in turn evolved into the bustle. My wedding dress had a crinoline and that was in the 1980s!
High heels for men
The male heel originated in Persia on riding shoes – when archers stood up in the saddle, heels gave them extra security for shooting. The style of high heels was adopted as a status symbol in the early 17th century Europe. The less practical a shoe, the more a man boasted the fact that his footwear had no utility at all. They weren’t made for tilling the fields or even for walking in. If you were an aristocrat you could wear the most outrageous heels.
The style maven for this particular fashion was Louis XIV of France. He introduced shoes with red heels 
and soles. This fashion was adopted by Charles II who at over six foot tall certainly didn’t need the extra height but did love a gorgeous pair of heels!
Are there any particular historical fashions you would like to see make a comeback, or any styles you have tried and enjoyed wearing? Do you think the codpiece or pannier will ever be back in fashion?
Well… I once knew a professional cricket player (HATE cricket!). There was a codpiece of sorts involved in his day to day existence. 🙂
I always get a laugh when I visit the Tower of London or similar places and see the giant codpieces that come with the suits of armour. Especially if they belonged to a figure I disliked (Henry the Eighth, for example).
And I’ve worn an Elizabethan-style ruff in a production of A Midsummer Night’s Dream (HATED that, too – it ruined my pretty dress!).
No 18th century pannier in my past, but I’ve worn a full, mid-19th century hoop skirt before. You do this twisty thing with your hips and you can make it twist like a hula hoop! I’ll never understand women’s skirts in the 18th and 19th centuries. NEVER.
And as for high heels for men? There’s this company called ‘Taller’ that makes shoes with ‘invisible’ high heels in them. I came across them in an aeroplane magazine the other week. Had a great laugh with my brother over the advertisement!
None of it is exactly ‘back in fashion’, however…
Well… I once knew a professional cricket player (HATE cricket!). There was a codpiece of sorts involved in his day to day existence. 🙂
I always get a laugh when I visit the Tower of London or similar places and see the giant codpieces that come with the suits of armour. Especially if they belonged to a figure I disliked (Henry the Eighth, for example).
And I’ve worn an Elizabethan-style ruff in a production of A Midsummer Night’s Dream (HATED that, too – it ruined my pretty dress!).
No 18th century pannier in my past, but I’ve worn a full, mid-19th century hoop skirt before. You do this twisty thing with your hips and you can make it twist like a hula hoop! I’ll never understand women’s skirts in the 18th and 19th centuries. NEVER.
And as for high heels for men? There’s this company called ‘Taller’ that makes shoes with ‘invisible’ high heels in them. I came across them in an aeroplane magazine the other week. Had a great laugh with my brother over the advertisement!
None of it is exactly ‘back in fashion’, however…
Well… I once knew a professional cricket player (HATE cricket!). There was a codpiece of sorts involved in his day to day existence. 🙂
I always get a laugh when I visit the Tower of London or similar places and see the giant codpieces that come with the suits of armour. Especially if they belonged to a figure I disliked (Henry the Eighth, for example).
And I’ve worn an Elizabethan-style ruff in a production of A Midsummer Night’s Dream (HATED that, too – it ruined my pretty dress!).
No 18th century pannier in my past, but I’ve worn a full, mid-19th century hoop skirt before. You do this twisty thing with your hips and you can make it twist like a hula hoop! I’ll never understand women’s skirts in the 18th and 19th centuries. NEVER.
And as for high heels for men? There’s this company called ‘Taller’ that makes shoes with ‘invisible’ high heels in them. I came across them in an aeroplane magazine the other week. Had a great laugh with my brother over the advertisement!
None of it is exactly ‘back in fashion’, however…
Well… I once knew a professional cricket player (HATE cricket!). There was a codpiece of sorts involved in his day to day existence. 🙂
I always get a laugh when I visit the Tower of London or similar places and see the giant codpieces that come with the suits of armour. Especially if they belonged to a figure I disliked (Henry the Eighth, for example).
And I’ve worn an Elizabethan-style ruff in a production of A Midsummer Night’s Dream (HATED that, too – it ruined my pretty dress!).
No 18th century pannier in my past, but I’ve worn a full, mid-19th century hoop skirt before. You do this twisty thing with your hips and you can make it twist like a hula hoop! I’ll never understand women’s skirts in the 18th and 19th centuries. NEVER.
And as for high heels for men? There’s this company called ‘Taller’ that makes shoes with ‘invisible’ high heels in them. I came across them in an aeroplane magazine the other week. Had a great laugh with my brother over the advertisement!
None of it is exactly ‘back in fashion’, however…
Well… I once knew a professional cricket player (HATE cricket!). There was a codpiece of sorts involved in his day to day existence. 🙂
I always get a laugh when I visit the Tower of London or similar places and see the giant codpieces that come with the suits of armour. Especially if they belonged to a figure I disliked (Henry the Eighth, for example).
And I’ve worn an Elizabethan-style ruff in a production of A Midsummer Night’s Dream (HATED that, too – it ruined my pretty dress!).
No 18th century pannier in my past, but I’ve worn a full, mid-19th century hoop skirt before. You do this twisty thing with your hips and you can make it twist like a hula hoop! I’ll never understand women’s skirts in the 18th and 19th centuries. NEVER.
And as for high heels for men? There’s this company called ‘Taller’ that makes shoes with ‘invisible’ high heels in them. I came across them in an aeroplane magazine the other week. Had a great laugh with my brother over the advertisement!
None of it is exactly ‘back in fashion’, however…
Oh I most definitely think the pinnier might make a comeback. Well not exactly the same design but something of the like, like the crinoline. For one I think the cloaks or capes are coming back. Most especially for the women’s and kids line for coats and jackets. They”re not the long cloaks but the short or half cloaks that I’m seeing in fashion.
Oh I most definitely think the pinnier might make a comeback. Well not exactly the same design but something of the like, like the crinoline. For one I think the cloaks or capes are coming back. Most especially for the women’s and kids line for coats and jackets. They”re not the long cloaks but the short or half cloaks that I’m seeing in fashion.
Oh I most definitely think the pinnier might make a comeback. Well not exactly the same design but something of the like, like the crinoline. For one I think the cloaks or capes are coming back. Most especially for the women’s and kids line for coats and jackets. They”re not the long cloaks but the short or half cloaks that I’m seeing in fashion.
Oh I most definitely think the pinnier might make a comeback. Well not exactly the same design but something of the like, like the crinoline. For one I think the cloaks or capes are coming back. Most especially for the women’s and kids line for coats and jackets. They”re not the long cloaks but the short or half cloaks that I’m seeing in fashion.
Oh I most definitely think the pinnier might make a comeback. Well not exactly the same design but something of the like, like the crinoline. For one I think the cloaks or capes are coming back. Most especially for the women’s and kids line for coats and jackets. They”re not the long cloaks but the short or half cloaks that I’m seeing in fashion.
Hi Sonya! Yes, the sportsman’s “box” is probably the closest modern day equivalent of the codpiece although definitely not a fashion item! I love that you have worn a ruff, and even more that you can make a hoop skirt twist like a hula hoop. What fun!
Hi Sonya! Yes, the sportsman’s “box” is probably the closest modern day equivalent of the codpiece although definitely not a fashion item! I love that you have worn a ruff, and even more that you can make a hoop skirt twist like a hula hoop. What fun!
Hi Sonya! Yes, the sportsman’s “box” is probably the closest modern day equivalent of the codpiece although definitely not a fashion item! I love that you have worn a ruff, and even more that you can make a hoop skirt twist like a hula hoop. What fun!
Hi Sonya! Yes, the sportsman’s “box” is probably the closest modern day equivalent of the codpiece although definitely not a fashion item! I love that you have worn a ruff, and even more that you can make a hoop skirt twist like a hula hoop. What fun!
Hi Sonya! Yes, the sportsman’s “box” is probably the closest modern day equivalent of the codpiece although definitely not a fashion item! I love that you have worn a ruff, and even more that you can make a hoop skirt twist like a hula hoop. What fun!
Ki pha, there’s something very stylish and romantic about a cape or cloak, to my mind. I wouldn’t be so keen about wearing the crinoline again but that’s probably because I caught my heel in mine on my weeding day and almost fell over!
Ki pha, there’s something very stylish and romantic about a cape or cloak, to my mind. I wouldn’t be so keen about wearing the crinoline again but that’s probably because I caught my heel in mine on my weeding day and almost fell over!
Ki pha, there’s something very stylish and romantic about a cape or cloak, to my mind. I wouldn’t be so keen about wearing the crinoline again but that’s probably because I caught my heel in mine on my weeding day and almost fell over!
Ki pha, there’s something very stylish and romantic about a cape or cloak, to my mind. I wouldn’t be so keen about wearing the crinoline again but that’s probably because I caught my heel in mine on my weeding day and almost fell over!
Ki pha, there’s something very stylish and romantic about a cape or cloak, to my mind. I wouldn’t be so keen about wearing the crinoline again but that’s probably because I caught my heel in mine on my weeding day and almost fell over!
It kinda has come back–the buttock enhancer. I was at Williamsburg recently, and the mantua maker showed me something (it looked like two pillows that tied with tapes around the waist over a chemise but under a petticoat) that wasn’t quite a bustle, but its purpose was to lift the skirts in the back.
As for codpieces, our resident rugby player said the were “optional” but “desirable.”
I wish the hat would come back. I love a stylish hat. For a while in my twenties, I had about three great hats. For 4th of July race that a volunteered for, I decorated a straw bonnet with a red-white-and-blue ribbon and those strands of sparkly stars.
It kinda has come back–the buttock enhancer. I was at Williamsburg recently, and the mantua maker showed me something (it looked like two pillows that tied with tapes around the waist over a chemise but under a petticoat) that wasn’t quite a bustle, but its purpose was to lift the skirts in the back.
As for codpieces, our resident rugby player said the were “optional” but “desirable.”
I wish the hat would come back. I love a stylish hat. For a while in my twenties, I had about three great hats. For 4th of July race that a volunteered for, I decorated a straw bonnet with a red-white-and-blue ribbon and those strands of sparkly stars.
It kinda has come back–the buttock enhancer. I was at Williamsburg recently, and the mantua maker showed me something (it looked like two pillows that tied with tapes around the waist over a chemise but under a petticoat) that wasn’t quite a bustle, but its purpose was to lift the skirts in the back.
As for codpieces, our resident rugby player said the were “optional” but “desirable.”
I wish the hat would come back. I love a stylish hat. For a while in my twenties, I had about three great hats. For 4th of July race that a volunteered for, I decorated a straw bonnet with a red-white-and-blue ribbon and those strands of sparkly stars.
It kinda has come back–the buttock enhancer. I was at Williamsburg recently, and the mantua maker showed me something (it looked like two pillows that tied with tapes around the waist over a chemise but under a petticoat) that wasn’t quite a bustle, but its purpose was to lift the skirts in the back.
As for codpieces, our resident rugby player said the were “optional” but “desirable.”
I wish the hat would come back. I love a stylish hat. For a while in my twenties, I had about three great hats. For 4th of July race that a volunteered for, I decorated a straw bonnet with a red-white-and-blue ribbon and those strands of sparkly stars.
It kinda has come back–the buttock enhancer. I was at Williamsburg recently, and the mantua maker showed me something (it looked like two pillows that tied with tapes around the waist over a chemise but under a petticoat) that wasn’t quite a bustle, but its purpose was to lift the skirts in the back.
As for codpieces, our resident rugby player said the were “optional” but “desirable.”
I wish the hat would come back. I love a stylish hat. For a while in my twenties, I had about three great hats. For 4th of July race that a volunteered for, I decorated a straw bonnet with a red-white-and-blue ribbon and those strands of sparkly stars.
It is really surprising how long the fashion for hatlessnes has already lasted, but unlike Shannon I do not repine over this – my head is big and of such a shape that I look terrible in most hats. My heart goes out to all the women in historic times who had similar difficulties, but had to wear hats anyway.
Elegant long gloves – I wore them to balls in my far-off youth and still own some pairs, but don’t miss wearing them. These days we wear gloves almost exclusively against the cold, not as a fashion statement.
Long square wool scarves are still used, as in the past (the Pashmina style and others). I find them useful on trips – easier to fold and take up less space in the handbag than a jacket would.
Aprons … they never really went away, but became smaller over time, and rather declassé. The fact that our garments are easier to clean and we have more of them, took away some of their importance. Yet they are very useful, and may yet make a comeback.
It is really surprising how long the fashion for hatlessnes has already lasted, but unlike Shannon I do not repine over this – my head is big and of such a shape that I look terrible in most hats. My heart goes out to all the women in historic times who had similar difficulties, but had to wear hats anyway.
Elegant long gloves – I wore them to balls in my far-off youth and still own some pairs, but don’t miss wearing them. These days we wear gloves almost exclusively against the cold, not as a fashion statement.
Long square wool scarves are still used, as in the past (the Pashmina style and others). I find them useful on trips – easier to fold and take up less space in the handbag than a jacket would.
Aprons … they never really went away, but became smaller over time, and rather declassé. The fact that our garments are easier to clean and we have more of them, took away some of their importance. Yet they are very useful, and may yet make a comeback.
It is really surprising how long the fashion for hatlessnes has already lasted, but unlike Shannon I do not repine over this – my head is big and of such a shape that I look terrible in most hats. My heart goes out to all the women in historic times who had similar difficulties, but had to wear hats anyway.
Elegant long gloves – I wore them to balls in my far-off youth and still own some pairs, but don’t miss wearing them. These days we wear gloves almost exclusively against the cold, not as a fashion statement.
Long square wool scarves are still used, as in the past (the Pashmina style and others). I find them useful on trips – easier to fold and take up less space in the handbag than a jacket would.
Aprons … they never really went away, but became smaller over time, and rather declassé. The fact that our garments are easier to clean and we have more of them, took away some of their importance. Yet they are very useful, and may yet make a comeback.
It is really surprising how long the fashion for hatlessnes has already lasted, but unlike Shannon I do not repine over this – my head is big and of such a shape that I look terrible in most hats. My heart goes out to all the women in historic times who had similar difficulties, but had to wear hats anyway.
Elegant long gloves – I wore them to balls in my far-off youth and still own some pairs, but don’t miss wearing them. These days we wear gloves almost exclusively against the cold, not as a fashion statement.
Long square wool scarves are still used, as in the past (the Pashmina style and others). I find them useful on trips – easier to fold and take up less space in the handbag than a jacket would.
Aprons … they never really went away, but became smaller over time, and rather declassé. The fact that our garments are easier to clean and we have more of them, took away some of their importance. Yet they are very useful, and may yet make a comeback.
It is really surprising how long the fashion for hatlessnes has already lasted, but unlike Shannon I do not repine over this – my head is big and of such a shape that I look terrible in most hats. My heart goes out to all the women in historic times who had similar difficulties, but had to wear hats anyway.
Elegant long gloves – I wore them to balls in my far-off youth and still own some pairs, but don’t miss wearing them. These days we wear gloves almost exclusively against the cold, not as a fashion statement.
Long square wool scarves are still used, as in the past (the Pashmina style and others). I find them useful on trips – easier to fold and take up less space in the handbag than a jacket would.
Aprons … they never really went away, but became smaller over time, and rather declassé. The fact that our garments are easier to clean and we have more of them, took away some of their importance. Yet they are very useful, and may yet make a comeback.
Gosh, how interesting! I didn’t know about the buttock enhancer! I love the quote that the codpiece is “optional but desirable.” A chic hat is very stylish and smart!
Gosh, how interesting! I didn’t know about the buttock enhancer! I love the quote that the codpiece is “optional but desirable.” A chic hat is very stylish and smart!
Gosh, how interesting! I didn’t know about the buttock enhancer! I love the quote that the codpiece is “optional but desirable.” A chic hat is very stylish and smart!
Gosh, how interesting! I didn’t know about the buttock enhancer! I love the quote that the codpiece is “optional but desirable.” A chic hat is very stylish and smart!
Gosh, how interesting! I didn’t know about the buttock enhancer! I love the quote that the codpiece is “optional but desirable.” A chic hat is very stylish and smart!
It’s certainly the case that hats don’t suit everyone, but I suppose that’s the same for most fashion items. I would look ridiculous in an Empire line dress, for example! I do love stylish gloves and although I mostly wear them for warmth I do take a pride in them looking nice. Ditto shoes. Hadn’t thought of aprons, Maria,but they are practical and could also be decorative.
It’s certainly the case that hats don’t suit everyone, but I suppose that’s the same for most fashion items. I would look ridiculous in an Empire line dress, for example! I do love stylish gloves and although I mostly wear them for warmth I do take a pride in them looking nice. Ditto shoes. Hadn’t thought of aprons, Maria,but they are practical and could also be decorative.
It’s certainly the case that hats don’t suit everyone, but I suppose that’s the same for most fashion items. I would look ridiculous in an Empire line dress, for example! I do love stylish gloves and although I mostly wear them for warmth I do take a pride in them looking nice. Ditto shoes. Hadn’t thought of aprons, Maria,but they are practical and could also be decorative.
It’s certainly the case that hats don’t suit everyone, but I suppose that’s the same for most fashion items. I would look ridiculous in an Empire line dress, for example! I do love stylish gloves and although I mostly wear them for warmth I do take a pride in them looking nice. Ditto shoes. Hadn’t thought of aprons, Maria,but they are practical and could also be decorative.
It’s certainly the case that hats don’t suit everyone, but I suppose that’s the same for most fashion items. I would look ridiculous in an Empire line dress, for example! I do love stylish gloves and although I mostly wear them for warmth I do take a pride in them looking nice. Ditto shoes. Hadn’t thought of aprons, Maria,but they are practical and could also be decorative.
Kid gloves, snugly fitting kid gloves, not for warmth, just for pretty. Long or short, I wish they would come back.
An odd reason for a change in fashion: At the court of James I, ruffs stiffened with a yellow starch were all the rage. Anne Turner was the major provider of that starch, but it fell out of fashion after she was convicted in the murder of Sir Thomas Overbury!
Kid gloves, snugly fitting kid gloves, not for warmth, just for pretty. Long or short, I wish they would come back.
An odd reason for a change in fashion: At the court of James I, ruffs stiffened with a yellow starch were all the rage. Anne Turner was the major provider of that starch, but it fell out of fashion after she was convicted in the murder of Sir Thomas Overbury!
Kid gloves, snugly fitting kid gloves, not for warmth, just for pretty. Long or short, I wish they would come back.
An odd reason for a change in fashion: At the court of James I, ruffs stiffened with a yellow starch were all the rage. Anne Turner was the major provider of that starch, but it fell out of fashion after she was convicted in the murder of Sir Thomas Overbury!
Kid gloves, snugly fitting kid gloves, not for warmth, just for pretty. Long or short, I wish they would come back.
An odd reason for a change in fashion: At the court of James I, ruffs stiffened with a yellow starch were all the rage. Anne Turner was the major provider of that starch, but it fell out of fashion after she was convicted in the murder of Sir Thomas Overbury!
Kid gloves, snugly fitting kid gloves, not for warmth, just for pretty. Long or short, I wish they would come back.
An odd reason for a change in fashion: At the court of James I, ruffs stiffened with a yellow starch were all the rage. Anne Turner was the major provider of that starch, but it fell out of fashion after she was convicted in the murder of Sir Thomas Overbury!
That’s fascinating about Anne Turner, Lil! Maybe no one wanted to step into her shoes! I do love gloves and think they are very pretty.
That’s fascinating about Anne Turner, Lil! Maybe no one wanted to step into her shoes! I do love gloves and think they are very pretty.
That’s fascinating about Anne Turner, Lil! Maybe no one wanted to step into her shoes! I do love gloves and think they are very pretty.
That’s fascinating about Anne Turner, Lil! Maybe no one wanted to step into her shoes! I do love gloves and think they are very pretty.
That’s fascinating about Anne Turner, Lil! Maybe no one wanted to step into her shoes! I do love gloves and think they are very pretty.
Great article, Nicola! We’re so in to comfort and convenience, I can’t imagine panniers or ruffs ever coming back into fashion. But what I find interesting (also frustrating) is that men’s fashions are virtually unchanged since about the mid-19th century, while women’s fashions continue to be all over the place! I’m sure it has to do with the fact that the marketing people have figured out that men won’t replace their wardrobes every year while women will!
I second missing hats and gloves, and would love long skirts to come back into fashion!
Great article, Nicola! We’re so in to comfort and convenience, I can’t imagine panniers or ruffs ever coming back into fashion. But what I find interesting (also frustrating) is that men’s fashions are virtually unchanged since about the mid-19th century, while women’s fashions continue to be all over the place! I’m sure it has to do with the fact that the marketing people have figured out that men won’t replace their wardrobes every year while women will!
I second missing hats and gloves, and would love long skirts to come back into fashion!
Great article, Nicola! We’re so in to comfort and convenience, I can’t imagine panniers or ruffs ever coming back into fashion. But what I find interesting (also frustrating) is that men’s fashions are virtually unchanged since about the mid-19th century, while women’s fashions continue to be all over the place! I’m sure it has to do with the fact that the marketing people have figured out that men won’t replace their wardrobes every year while women will!
I second missing hats and gloves, and would love long skirts to come back into fashion!
Great article, Nicola! We’re so in to comfort and convenience, I can’t imagine panniers or ruffs ever coming back into fashion. But what I find interesting (also frustrating) is that men’s fashions are virtually unchanged since about the mid-19th century, while women’s fashions continue to be all over the place! I’m sure it has to do with the fact that the marketing people have figured out that men won’t replace their wardrobes every year while women will!
I second missing hats and gloves, and would love long skirts to come back into fashion!
Great article, Nicola! We’re so in to comfort and convenience, I can’t imagine panniers or ruffs ever coming back into fashion. But what I find interesting (also frustrating) is that men’s fashions are virtually unchanged since about the mid-19th century, while women’s fashions continue to be all over the place! I’m sure it has to do with the fact that the marketing people have figured out that men won’t replace their wardrobes every year while women will!
I second missing hats and gloves, and would love long skirts to come back into fashion!
I can imagine codpieces coming back into style as an aggressive sign of virility. Not quite the same, but I remember a brief fashion for decorated flies on the front of jeans that was designed to draw the eye.
As I get older I think that turbans could hide thinning hair, but I’d hate wearing one in summer. And wimples could hide the sagging jaw, but I’d hate that even more!
Men put up with ties, though I see more not wearing them with a suit. Shows sense, which is rare in fashion!
Jo
I can imagine codpieces coming back into style as an aggressive sign of virility. Not quite the same, but I remember a brief fashion for decorated flies on the front of jeans that was designed to draw the eye.
As I get older I think that turbans could hide thinning hair, but I’d hate wearing one in summer. And wimples could hide the sagging jaw, but I’d hate that even more!
Men put up with ties, though I see more not wearing them with a suit. Shows sense, which is rare in fashion!
Jo
I can imagine codpieces coming back into style as an aggressive sign of virility. Not quite the same, but I remember a brief fashion for decorated flies on the front of jeans that was designed to draw the eye.
As I get older I think that turbans could hide thinning hair, but I’d hate wearing one in summer. And wimples could hide the sagging jaw, but I’d hate that even more!
Men put up with ties, though I see more not wearing them with a suit. Shows sense, which is rare in fashion!
Jo
I can imagine codpieces coming back into style as an aggressive sign of virility. Not quite the same, but I remember a brief fashion for decorated flies on the front of jeans that was designed to draw the eye.
As I get older I think that turbans could hide thinning hair, but I’d hate wearing one in summer. And wimples could hide the sagging jaw, but I’d hate that even more!
Men put up with ties, though I see more not wearing them with a suit. Shows sense, which is rare in fashion!
Jo
I can imagine codpieces coming back into style as an aggressive sign of virility. Not quite the same, but I remember a brief fashion for decorated flies on the front of jeans that was designed to draw the eye.
As I get older I think that turbans could hide thinning hair, but I’d hate wearing one in summer. And wimples could hide the sagging jaw, but I’d hate that even more!
Men put up with ties, though I see more not wearing them with a suit. Shows sense, which is rare in fashion!
Jo
That’s a false rump. Common to the 1780s. Oddly enough, Two Nerdy History Girls are talking about them today.
That’s a false rump. Common to the 1780s. Oddly enough, Two Nerdy History Girls are talking about them today.
That’s a false rump. Common to the 1780s. Oddly enough, Two Nerdy History Girls are talking about them today.
That’s a false rump. Common to the 1780s. Oddly enough, Two Nerdy History Girls are talking about them today.
That’s a false rump. Common to the 1780s. Oddly enough, Two Nerdy History Girls are talking about them today.
Nicola–
Codpieces are basically a silly example of “mine is bigger than yours-ism,” but just looking at ruffs makes me feel suffocated. I hate the very idea of them/
I’m so indifferent to gloves that I buy multiple matching pairs of the cheap, dollar a pair sort so that if I lose one glove, I can immediately replace it with a matching glove. I stuff pairs in pocket of all my winter coats and jackets because they’re all about warmth.
But cloaks, now–lovely! Hooded is particularly good. I’ve had them myself, plus I have several versions of ruanas, which also drape beautifully. They’re so very good for sweeping around. *G*
Nicola–
Codpieces are basically a silly example of “mine is bigger than yours-ism,” but just looking at ruffs makes me feel suffocated. I hate the very idea of them/
I’m so indifferent to gloves that I buy multiple matching pairs of the cheap, dollar a pair sort so that if I lose one glove, I can immediately replace it with a matching glove. I stuff pairs in pocket of all my winter coats and jackets because they’re all about warmth.
But cloaks, now–lovely! Hooded is particularly good. I’ve had them myself, plus I have several versions of ruanas, which also drape beautifully. They’re so very good for sweeping around. *G*
Nicola–
Codpieces are basically a silly example of “mine is bigger than yours-ism,” but just looking at ruffs makes me feel suffocated. I hate the very idea of them/
I’m so indifferent to gloves that I buy multiple matching pairs of the cheap, dollar a pair sort so that if I lose one glove, I can immediately replace it with a matching glove. I stuff pairs in pocket of all my winter coats and jackets because they’re all about warmth.
But cloaks, now–lovely! Hooded is particularly good. I’ve had them myself, plus I have several versions of ruanas, which also drape beautifully. They’re so very good for sweeping around. *G*
Nicola–
Codpieces are basically a silly example of “mine is bigger than yours-ism,” but just looking at ruffs makes me feel suffocated. I hate the very idea of them/
I’m so indifferent to gloves that I buy multiple matching pairs of the cheap, dollar a pair sort so that if I lose one glove, I can immediately replace it with a matching glove. I stuff pairs in pocket of all my winter coats and jackets because they’re all about warmth.
But cloaks, now–lovely! Hooded is particularly good. I’ve had them myself, plus I have several versions of ruanas, which also drape beautifully. They’re so very good for sweeping around. *G*
Nicola–
Codpieces are basically a silly example of “mine is bigger than yours-ism,” but just looking at ruffs makes me feel suffocated. I hate the very idea of them/
I’m so indifferent to gloves that I buy multiple matching pairs of the cheap, dollar a pair sort so that if I lose one glove, I can immediately replace it with a matching glove. I stuff pairs in pocket of all my winter coats and jackets because they’re all about warmth.
But cloaks, now–lovely! Hooded is particularly good. I’ve had them myself, plus I have several versions of ruanas, which also drape beautifully. They’re so very good for sweeping around. *G*
I used to live in Korea. In the markets there they sell heavily-padded Lycra shorts to enhance the buttocks!
I used to live in Korea. In the markets there they sell heavily-padded Lycra shorts to enhance the buttocks!
I used to live in Korea. In the markets there they sell heavily-padded Lycra shorts to enhance the buttocks!
I used to live in Korea. In the markets there they sell heavily-padded Lycra shorts to enhance the buttocks!
I used to live in Korea. In the markets there they sell heavily-padded Lycra shorts to enhance the buttocks!
Thanks, Isobel – I’ll pop across to read. Love that blog!
Thanks, Isobel – I’ll pop across to read. Love that blog!
Thanks, Isobel – I’ll pop across to read. Love that blog!
Thanks, Isobel – I’ll pop across to read. Love that blog!
Thanks, Isobel – I’ll pop across to read. Love that blog!
This is a fascinating debate!
This is a fascinating debate!
This is a fascinating debate!
This is a fascinating debate!
This is a fascinating debate!
Interesting point about women’s fashions changing quicker than men’s, Donna. If my dh is anything to go by, that’s spot on! I’m with you on the comfort element. Can’t imagine wanting to wear anything awkward or uncomfortable, like a pannier or bustle.
Interesting point about women’s fashions changing quicker than men’s, Donna. If my dh is anything to go by, that’s spot on! I’m with you on the comfort element. Can’t imagine wanting to wear anything awkward or uncomfortable, like a pannier or bustle.
Interesting point about women’s fashions changing quicker than men’s, Donna. If my dh is anything to go by, that’s spot on! I’m with you on the comfort element. Can’t imagine wanting to wear anything awkward or uncomfortable, like a pannier or bustle.
Interesting point about women’s fashions changing quicker than men’s, Donna. If my dh is anything to go by, that’s spot on! I’m with you on the comfort element. Can’t imagine wanting to wear anything awkward or uncomfortable, like a pannier or bustle.
Interesting point about women’s fashions changing quicker than men’s, Donna. If my dh is anything to go by, that’s spot on! I’m with you on the comfort element. Can’t imagine wanting to wear anything awkward or uncomfortable, like a pannier or bustle.
Decorated flies, Jo! That one passed me by, but how interesting! I should think a turban could be very stylish indeed, if too hot in summer.
Decorated flies, Jo! That one passed me by, but how interesting! I should think a turban could be very stylish indeed, if too hot in summer.
Decorated flies, Jo! That one passed me by, but how interesting! I should think a turban could be very stylish indeed, if too hot in summer.
Decorated flies, Jo! That one passed me by, but how interesting! I should think a turban could be very stylish indeed, if too hot in summer.
Decorated flies, Jo! That one passed me by, but how interesting! I should think a turban could be very stylish indeed, if too hot in summer.
Whenever I see a ruff I’m reminded of Blackadder, Mary Jo, and the moment he tells Percy he looks like a bird that has swallowed a plate. I hate the idea of them too. A lovely cloak for swishing around in – yes, that’s the thing!
Whenever I see a ruff I’m reminded of Blackadder, Mary Jo, and the moment he tells Percy he looks like a bird that has swallowed a plate. I hate the idea of them too. A lovely cloak for swishing around in – yes, that’s the thing!
Whenever I see a ruff I’m reminded of Blackadder, Mary Jo, and the moment he tells Percy he looks like a bird that has swallowed a plate. I hate the idea of them too. A lovely cloak for swishing around in – yes, that’s the thing!
Whenever I see a ruff I’m reminded of Blackadder, Mary Jo, and the moment he tells Percy he looks like a bird that has swallowed a plate. I hate the idea of them too. A lovely cloak for swishing around in – yes, that’s the thing!
Whenever I see a ruff I’m reminded of Blackadder, Mary Jo, and the moment he tells Percy he looks like a bird that has swallowed a plate. I hate the idea of them too. A lovely cloak for swishing around in – yes, that’s the thing!
Such a fun post,, Nicola! Did men really carry money in teir codpieces . ..along with the family jewels> Fetching it out to pay for something must have been, um, interesting to watch.
Such a fun post,, Nicola! Did men really carry money in teir codpieces . ..along with the family jewels> Fetching it out to pay for something must have been, um, interesting to watch.
Such a fun post,, Nicola! Did men really carry money in teir codpieces . ..along with the family jewels> Fetching it out to pay for something must have been, um, interesting to watch.
Such a fun post,, Nicola! Did men really carry money in teir codpieces . ..along with the family jewels> Fetching it out to pay for something must have been, um, interesting to watch.
Such a fun post,, Nicola! Did men really carry money in teir codpieces . ..along with the family jewels> Fetching it out to pay for something must have been, um, interesting to watch.
According to the article I read about it, keys and coins were stashed away in there, Cara. Yes, imagine the fun when all that fumbling for change started!
According to the article I read about it, keys and coins were stashed away in there, Cara. Yes, imagine the fun when all that fumbling for change started!
According to the article I read about it, keys and coins were stashed away in there, Cara. Yes, imagine the fun when all that fumbling for change started!
According to the article I read about it, keys and coins were stashed away in there, Cara. Yes, imagine the fun when all that fumbling for change started!
According to the article I read about it, keys and coins were stashed away in there, Cara. Yes, imagine the fun when all that fumbling for change started!
Ha, ha, ha. That could make quite a fun scene in a book . . .
Ha, ha, ha. That could make quite a fun scene in a book . . .
Ha, ha, ha. That could make quite a fun scene in a book . . .
Ha, ha, ha. That could make quite a fun scene in a book . . .
Ha, ha, ha. That could make quite a fun scene in a book . . .
Last time I made a costume with a codpiece (16thC German Landsknecht), I put little belled cat toys inside it. Because I am mean.
Last time I made a costume with a codpiece (16thC German Landsknecht), I put little belled cat toys inside it. Because I am mean.
Last time I made a costume with a codpiece (16thC German Landsknecht), I put little belled cat toys inside it. Because I am mean.
Last time I made a costume with a codpiece (16thC German Landsknecht), I put little belled cat toys inside it. Because I am mean.
Last time I made a costume with a codpiece (16thC German Landsknecht), I put little belled cat toys inside it. Because I am mean.
ROFL!!!
ROFL!!!
ROFL!!!
ROFL!!!
ROFL!!!
Isobel, thaty’s hysterical! How did the Landsknecht react? *G*
Isobel, thaty’s hysterical! How did the Landsknecht react? *G*
Isobel, thaty’s hysterical! How did the Landsknecht react? *G*
Isobel, thaty’s hysterical! How did the Landsknecht react? *G*
Isobel, thaty’s hysterical! How did the Landsknecht react? *G*
ROFL !! Only you, Isobel! Can you imagine some young lady fumbling around in the dark with her swain and imagining IT had bells on it???
Fascinating post, Nicola. In my singing career I have worn some interesting period costumes and of course in Germany and Austria in the 80’s directors were staging avant guarde productions and costumers were QUITE creative with their costumes. I’ve worn panniers with just a corset and stockings and high-heeled shoes. Maneuvering on stage was a nightmare and it was rather cold!
I do love capes! I had a floor-length black wool cape when I lived in Germany and I absolutely loved it. Unfortunately I took it to a local dry cleaner about fifteen years ago and they ruined it! I was heartbroken and I will never be able to find something of that quality here for what I paid there all those years ago.
ROFL !! Only you, Isobel! Can you imagine some young lady fumbling around in the dark with her swain and imagining IT had bells on it???
Fascinating post, Nicola. In my singing career I have worn some interesting period costumes and of course in Germany and Austria in the 80’s directors were staging avant guarde productions and costumers were QUITE creative with their costumes. I’ve worn panniers with just a corset and stockings and high-heeled shoes. Maneuvering on stage was a nightmare and it was rather cold!
I do love capes! I had a floor-length black wool cape when I lived in Germany and I absolutely loved it. Unfortunately I took it to a local dry cleaner about fifteen years ago and they ruined it! I was heartbroken and I will never be able to find something of that quality here for what I paid there all those years ago.
ROFL !! Only you, Isobel! Can you imagine some young lady fumbling around in the dark with her swain and imagining IT had bells on it???
Fascinating post, Nicola. In my singing career I have worn some interesting period costumes and of course in Germany and Austria in the 80’s directors were staging avant guarde productions and costumers were QUITE creative with their costumes. I’ve worn panniers with just a corset and stockings and high-heeled shoes. Maneuvering on stage was a nightmare and it was rather cold!
I do love capes! I had a floor-length black wool cape when I lived in Germany and I absolutely loved it. Unfortunately I took it to a local dry cleaner about fifteen years ago and they ruined it! I was heartbroken and I will never be able to find something of that quality here for what I paid there all those years ago.
ROFL !! Only you, Isobel! Can you imagine some young lady fumbling around in the dark with her swain and imagining IT had bells on it???
Fascinating post, Nicola. In my singing career I have worn some interesting period costumes and of course in Germany and Austria in the 80’s directors were staging avant guarde productions and costumers were QUITE creative with their costumes. I’ve worn panniers with just a corset and stockings and high-heeled shoes. Maneuvering on stage was a nightmare and it was rather cold!
I do love capes! I had a floor-length black wool cape when I lived in Germany and I absolutely loved it. Unfortunately I took it to a local dry cleaner about fifteen years ago and they ruined it! I was heartbroken and I will never be able to find something of that quality here for what I paid there all those years ago.
ROFL !! Only you, Isobel! Can you imagine some young lady fumbling around in the dark with her swain and imagining IT had bells on it???
Fascinating post, Nicola. In my singing career I have worn some interesting period costumes and of course in Germany and Austria in the 80’s directors were staging avant guarde productions and costumers were QUITE creative with their costumes. I’ve worn panniers with just a corset and stockings and high-heeled shoes. Maneuvering on stage was a nightmare and it was rather cold!
I do love capes! I had a floor-length black wool cape when I lived in Germany and I absolutely loved it. Unfortunately I took it to a local dry cleaner about fifteen years ago and they ruined it! I was heartbroken and I will never be able to find something of that quality here for what I paid there all those years ago.
Louisa mentioned capes, they seem like such a dashing fashion item. I would love to have one. My father always used to say I had a “hat face” and I do wear them throughout the winter, but I wish they would come back into style all year round.
Louisa mentioned capes, they seem like such a dashing fashion item. I would love to have one. My father always used to say I had a “hat face” and I do wear them throughout the winter, but I wish they would come back into style all year round.
Louisa mentioned capes, they seem like such a dashing fashion item. I would love to have one. My father always used to say I had a “hat face” and I do wear them throughout the winter, but I wish they would come back into style all year round.
Louisa mentioned capes, they seem like such a dashing fashion item. I would love to have one. My father always used to say I had a “hat face” and I do wear them throughout the winter, but I wish they would come back into style all year round.
Louisa mentioned capes, they seem like such a dashing fashion item. I would love to have one. My father always used to say I had a “hat face” and I do wear them throughout the winter, but I wish they would come back into style all year round.
Can’t stop laughing at the codpiece bell scenario! I think you definitely win out with the “interesting outfits,” Louisa. What an experience!
Can’t stop laughing at the codpiece bell scenario! I think you definitely win out with the “interesting outfits,” Louisa. What an experience!
Can’t stop laughing at the codpiece bell scenario! I think you definitely win out with the “interesting outfits,” Louisa. What an experience!
Can’t stop laughing at the codpiece bell scenario! I think you definitely win out with the “interesting outfits,” Louisa. What an experience!
Can’t stop laughing at the codpiece bell scenario! I think you definitely win out with the “interesting outfits,” Louisa. What an experience!
Your father is spot on about having to have a “hat face” to look good in them, Karin. I envy you! I think many people, myself included,have the wrong shaped heads.
Your father is spot on about having to have a “hat face” to look good in them, Karin. I envy you! I think many people, myself included,have the wrong shaped heads.
Your father is spot on about having to have a “hat face” to look good in them, Karin. I envy you! I think many people, myself included,have the wrong shaped heads.
Your father is spot on about having to have a “hat face” to look good in them, Karin. I envy you! I think many people, myself included,have the wrong shaped heads.
Your father is spot on about having to have a “hat face” to look good in them, Karin. I envy you! I think many people, myself included,have the wrong shaped heads.