1600s (17th Century):
* Early 17th Century: This period was marked by the reign of Henry IV and the early years of Louis XIII. The silhouette was still influenced by the late Renaissance, featuring a long, pointed bodice and a full skirt.
* Women: Wore high-waisted, tightly laced bodices, often with puffed sleeves, over a chemise. Skirts were full and could be made with various materials, like silk, velvet, or brocade. Large, stiff collars, ruffs, and elaborate headwear were popular.
* Men: Wore doublet and hose, with a codpiece. The doublet was a close-fitting, padded jacket often with a high collar, and the hose were breeches. They favored wide-brimmed hats, often with plumes or feathers.
* Mid to Late 17th Century (Reign of Louis XIV): This was the age of Baroque fashion, characterized by extravagance and elaborate ornamentation.
* Women: Bodices became more fitted and emphasized the bust, with a low neckline and a pointed, cone-shaped waist. Skirts were fuller and wider, often with panniers or cushions to create a dramatic silhouette. Lace, ribbons, and jewels were heavily used.
* Men: The "Grand Siècle" style featured a long, tight-fitting waistcoat worn over a doublet, often with a sash. Breeches became shorter, and the codpiece disappeared. Wigs, lace, and powdered hair were essential, and gentlemen often wore elaborate canes and swords.
1700s (18th Century):
* Early 18th Century (Reign of Louis XV): The Rococo style emerged, known for its light, playful, and whimsical nature.
* Women: Bodices softened, with less emphasis on extreme pointed waists. Skirts became slightly wider, with panniers still being used, but not as excessively. Lace, ruffles, and ribbons remained popular.
* Men: The waistcoat remained prominent, but became shorter and more fitted. Breeches remained short, but often had a more relaxed, flowing fit. Wigs remained popular, but they became more elaborate, often with curls and braids.
* Late 18th Century (Reign of Louis XVI and the French Revolution): This period saw a shift toward simpler and more practical styles.
* Women: Bodices became more fitted, with a rounder neckline. Skirts were simpler, with less emphasis on width. They adopted a more natural, less constricting style.
* Men: The waistcoat and breeches remained, but often in simpler fabrics and designs. Hair became more natural, with powdered wigs falling out of favor. The rise of the "frock coat" - a longer, single-breasted coat - became fashionable.
General Observations:
* Materials: Silk, velvet, satin, brocade, lace, and linen were common materials used in clothing.
* Color: Rich colors like crimson, blue, gold, and silver were favored, with contrasting colors often used for trim and embellishments.
* Accessories: Hats, gloves, fans, jewelry, canes, and swords were common accessories.
* Social Classes: Fashion was a powerful tool of social distinction. The wealthy aristocracy wore the most elaborate and expensive garments, while the lower classes wore simpler and more practical clothing.
It's important to note that these descriptions are general, and there were variations in style depending on region, occupation, and individual preferences. Fashion was a complex and ever-changing landscape in France during the 1600s and 1700s. If you're interested in learning more, you can explore books and websites on 17th and 18th-century French fashion.