The Reign of Henry Tudor
Illustration of Elizabeth of York and Henry VII
During The War of the Roses, two rival families called the Lancasters and the Yorks fought for control and power over England. The war ended after Henry Tudor's victory at Bosworth Field, and through his marriage to Elizabeth of York the two families were united.
This period brought about an era of relative stability to England, and began the next century of Tudor rule. Henry Tudor's son Henry VIII later became king, followed by his two daughters Mary I and later Elizabeth I. Elizabeth I became one of England's longest ruling monarchs.
This period brought about an era of relative stability to England, and began the next century of Tudor rule. Henry Tudor's son Henry VIII later became king, followed by his two daughters Mary I and later Elizabeth I. Elizabeth I became one of England's longest ruling monarchs.
Women's Fashion
A 16th Century portrait of Elizabeth of York wearing a Gable hood
Illustration of late 15th century women's fashion
Women's fashion during the late 1400s is reminiscent of what many people think of when imagining a "fairytale princess." The famous images of maidens in pointed cone-shaped hats and long, flowing gowns arises from this time period. Women wore dresses with multiple layers of fabric that were sinched in at the waist by a belt, usually with either a triangular or square-shaped neckline. There were no structured undergarments, as the natural flowing shape was preferred. Extremely long bell-sleeves were popular, and added to the overall draped appearance.
Hair was grown out extremely long, and hair coverings were popular. Some of the most common headdresses worn by late 15th century women included Wimples; multiple layers of linen which covered the entire head, Hennins; pointed cone-shaped headpieces often adorned with draping fabric, and Turbans; fabric wrapped stylisticly which sat at the top of the head. English Grable hoods with their distinctive triangular shape were also worn during this period, though they became much more popular during Henry VIII's reign.
Accessories included extravagant furs worn around the shoulders, as well as fur or velvet cuffs around the wrists.
Accessories included extravagant furs worn around the shoulders, as well as fur or velvet cuffs around the wrists.
Men's Fashion
Illustration of early 16th century menswear
Details of late 15th century men's hairstyles and narrow-shaped garments
Men's clothing followed women's in having a similar "draped" and narrow shape, as well as in its use of many layers of fabric. Structured undergarments were also not used during this time, but emphasis was placed onto visibility for the legs. Hoes were worn to emphasize the wearer's leg shape, as well as to give freedom of movement. Outerwear included long, narrow coats and capes.
A blunt, chin-length haircut was popular, and many different types of hats were worn, including the flat cap, French bonnet, and Chaperon; an extravagant version of the turban. Facial hair was kept closely shaved.