Ruff

Definition

A ruff is a circular, pleated collar that was popular in the late 16th and early 17th centuries, especially during the Renaissance. This dramatic piece of fashion was typically made from starched fabric and served to frame the face, enhancing the silhouette of garments worn during this period. The ruff's elaborate design and construction reflected the social status and wealth of the wearer, as well as the intricate craftsmanship of the era.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Ruffs were often made from linen or lace and could be quite large, sometimes extending several inches away from the neck.
2. The style of ruff evolved over time, starting with smaller, simpler designs before moving to larger and more elaborate forms.
3. Ruffs were sometimes adorned with embroidery or decorative trims, showcasing the wearer's wealth and taste.
4. In addition to their fashion statement, ruffs served a practical purpose by keeping hair away from the face and providing a barrier against dirt.
5. As fashion changed in the late 17th century, ruffs fell out of favor and were gradually replaced by softer collar styles.

Review Questions

• How did the design and construction of ruffs reflect social status during the Renaissance?
  • The design and construction of ruffs were key indicators of social status in Renaissance fashion. Wealthier individuals could afford elaborate ruffs made from fine materials like lace or embroidered fabric, often featuring intricate pleats and larger sizes. In contrast, lower-status individuals typically wore simpler and smaller versions. This distinction not only reflected personal wealth but also highlighted the craftsmanship of tailors who created these fashionable items.
• What role did ruffs play in creating an overall silhouette in Renaissance fashion?
  • Ruffs played a significant role in defining the overall silhouette during the Renaissance by adding structure and volume around the neck area. When paired with other garments like the cotehardie and farthingale, ruffs enhanced the wearer's profile, emphasizing a narrow waist while broadening the shoulders. This exaggerated silhouette became iconic during this period, influencing not only women's fashion but also men's attire.
• Evaluate how changes in fashion towards the end of the 17th century led to the decline of the ruff's popularity.
  • The decline of the ruff's popularity towards the end of the 17th century can be attributed to shifting fashion trends that favored softer, more relaxed styles over the rigid and structured forms of earlier periods. As society moved towards more informal attire that emphasized comfort and practicality, elaborate collars were replaced by simpler necklines and softer fabrics. This transformation in fashion reflected broader cultural changes, including shifts in social norms and attitudes toward formality, ultimately marking an end to the prominence of accessories like the ruff.

Related terms

Cotehardie: A fitted gown or tunic worn by men and women during the late Middle Ages and early Renaissance, often paired with a ruff for a complete look.

Farthingale: A structured petticoat used in the Renaissance to support the skirts of women’s dresses, which worked alongside the ruff to create a distinctive silhouette.

Elizabethan Era: A period in English history from 1558 to 1603 during which the ruff became a key element of fashion, reflecting the aesthetics and culture of Queen Elizabeth I's reign.