Farthingale

Definition

A farthingale is a structured petticoat or hoop skirt that became popular during the late 15th to early 17th centuries, primarily in Western Europe. It was designed to support and shape the silhouette of women's dresses, creating an exaggerated hourglass figure that was a hallmark of Elizabethan fashion. This structure not only accentuated the waist but also provided a foundation for elaborate gowns and outer garments, making it a significant element in the evolution of women's clothing.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Farthingales were typically made from materials like canvas or whalebone and could vary greatly in size and shape, including the more common 'French' and 'Spanish' styles.
2. The introduction of the farthingale influenced the overall aesthetics of women's fashion, encouraging the use of more voluminous fabrics and intricate designs.
3. Farthingales often required specific undergarments and support structures to hold them in place, impacting the overall layering of clothing during this period.
4. The style and structure of farthingales evolved over time, reflecting changes in fashion trends and cultural influences, particularly during the reign of Queen Elizabeth I.
5. Due to their size, farthingales restricted movement, leading to unique social customs where women had to maneuver carefully in public spaces to avoid accidents.

Review Questions

• How did the farthingale contribute to the overall silhouette of women's fashion during the Elizabethan period?
  • The farthingale significantly altered the silhouette of women's clothing by introducing a structured shape that emphasized an exaggerated waist and wider hips. This structure allowed dresses to flow elegantly from the body while creating an hourglass figure that was highly desired at the time. As a result, farthingales not only changed how women dressed but also influenced societal perceptions of femininity and elegance.
• Analyze how farthingales interacted with sumptuary laws in shaping fashion choices for women during the Elizabethan era.
  • Farthingales played a crucial role in expressing social status and adhering to sumptuary laws during the Elizabethan era. These laws restricted certain fabrics and styles based on one's rank, and the use of farthingales often indicated wealth due to their expense and complexity. Wealthy women could afford larger, more elaborate farthingales, thus reinforcing their social standing while showcasing their adherence to contemporary fashion norms.
• Evaluate the cultural significance of farthingales within Elizabethan society and their impact on gender roles during this historical period.
  • Farthingales were not just fashion statements; they symbolized the cultural values of Elizabethan society regarding femininity and social status. Their prominence in women's attire reflected an idealization of beauty that emphasized modesty yet required elaborate dress that constrained movement. This paradox highlighted how women's roles were defined by societal expectations, influencing gender dynamics as women's appearances became closely tied to their perceived virtue and honor within a patriarchal framework.

Related terms

Petticoat: A petticoat is an undergarment worn under skirts or dresses, often used for added volume and support.

Ruff: A ruff is a starched, frilled collar worn in the late 16th and early 17th centuries, often accompanying farthingales to enhance the dramatic effect of Elizabethan fashion.

Sumptuary Laws: Sumptuary laws were regulations that dictated what individuals could wear based on their social class, intended to maintain class distinctions within society.