Upper Class:
* Materials: Rich fabrics like velvet, silk, satin, and brocade were reserved for the wealthy. They adorned themselves in luxurious materials imported from far-off lands.
* Colors: Vivid hues like crimson, gold, and purple were popular, signifying their high social standing.
* Embellishments: Elaborate embroidery, lace, jewels, and precious metals were liberally used to adorn garments. The more elaborate the embellishment, the more wealth and status the wearer displayed.
* Silhouettes: Men wore elaborate doublets, slashed hose (tight-fitting pants with decorative slashes), and wide-ruffled collars. Women donned gowns with a tight-fitting bodice and a full, flowing skirt, often with a farthingale (a hoop-like structure) to create a wide, dramatic silhouette.
* Accessories: Ostentatious jewelry like pearl necklaces, gold chains, and jeweled rings were commonplace. Hats, gloves, and fans also served as status symbols.
Lower Class:
* Materials: Wool, linen, and hemp were the primary fabrics used by the working class. These materials were cheaper and more practical for everyday wear.
* Colors: Simple, muted colors like brown, gray, and black dominated.
* Embellishments: Few embellishments were used, except for basic stitching and perhaps a simple button.
* Silhouettes: Men's clothing was simpler, consisting of a doublet, breeches, and a simple shirt. Women wore a simple, long dress with a loose bodice.
* Accessories: Jewelry was minimal, often made from basic materials like pewter or wood.
Beyond the Basics:
* Costume Restrictions: The Elizabethan era saw strict sumptuary laws (laws regulating clothing) that prohibited certain materials and styles based on social rank. This ensured that clothing was a clear indicator of status.
* Regional Variations: While the upper class followed the latest trends from London, regional variations in clothing existed. For example, the northern parts of England had colder climates, leading to different types of outerwear.
* Occupation: Certain occupations, like farmers or artisans, had their own specific attire that reflected their work.
Examples:
* A wealthy nobleman would wear a luxurious velvet doublet with intricate gold embroidery, while a peasant would wear a simple wool doublet and breeches.
* A lady of the court would adorn herself in a silk gown with a farthingale, while a working-class woman would wear a linen dress with a simple gathered skirt.
The Elizabethan era saw a dramatic display of wealth and status through clothing. The differences between upper and lower class fashion were stark and highly regulated, making clothing a potent symbol of social order in the era.