Practical:
* Hygiene: In the Elizabethan era, bathing was infrequent. Ruffs helped to absorb perspiration and mask body odor, making them a crucial part of personal hygiene.
* Protection: The stiff starch used to keep the ruffs upright provided some protection from the elements, particularly the cold.
Symbolic:
* Status: The size and complexity of a ruff indicated a person's social standing. Queen Elizabeth I's ruffs were particularly elaborate, showcasing her wealth and power.
* Fashion: Ruffs were a fashionable trend in the Elizabethan era, and Queen Elizabeth I set the style for her court.
* Religion: The ruff's rigid structure was seen as a symbol of the strictness of the Protestant faith, which Elizabeth I championed.
* Masculinity: In a period where female monarchs were uncommon, the ruff's upright, almost militaristic form, gave Elizabeth a more masculine appearance, reflecting her strength and authority.
Other factors:
* Medical: Some believe the ruff might have also served a medical purpose, helping to protect the Queen's neck from drafts and diseases.
In short, while the ruff might have started as a practical garment for hygiene and protection, it quickly evolved into a powerful symbol of status, fashion, and the Queen's unique personality.