Survey of Late Sixteenth Century Men’s Clothing, 1570-1600

Clown costumes. Frilly ruffs and cuffs. Heads on plates. Excess in every way. For the acclimated, late sixteenth century men’s fashions were strange, bewildering, and off-putting. This lecture aims to familiarize attendees with the basics of men’s clothing of the time period – and point newcomers in a direction they may find more comfortable.

The late sixteenth century affords members of the SCA and other historical reenactors a wide variety of ridiculous and awesome clothing options. However, that sense of choice and the abundance of source documentation to reference can be overwhelming when looking to find examples of men’s clothing in the late sixteenth century.

This class is a survery of the various elements – and styles and options within – of a gentleman’s wardrobe during the era. It will organize and provide reference pictures for these many options in an attempt to familiarize attendees with their many options. The goal is education in aesthetic and typology, rather than a practicum on sewing and construction methods.

  • Goal: Introduce the many options in styles, cuts, and decorations of the clothes gentlemen wore in western Europe, c.1570-1600. Share resources to learn more. Not teach anybody to pattern or sew a damn thing.
  • Class Length: One Hour

Download Presentation Deck (PDF, 80+ Slides)

Download Handout (PDF)