1. Men's Fashion:
- Shirts: Men wore white linen or cotton shirts as undergarments.
- Doublets: These were jackets that covered the upper body. They were often made of
silk, velvet, or wool and could be elaborately decorated.
- Hosen (Hose): Tight-fitting stockings that covered the legs. They were often
made of wool or silk and could be of various colors.
- Breeches: Men wore loose-fitting pants called breeches that covered their
legs.
- Cloaks: Long, loose garments worn over the shoulders. They were often lined with
fur and served as a form of outerwear.
2. Women's Fashion:
- Dresses: Women typically wore long gowns or dresses that covered their entire
body.
- Kirtles: Kirtles were fitted, sleeveless dresses that were worn under the gown.
They were often made of fine fabrics and decorated with embroidery.
- Fore-part: This was a separate piece of fabric worn over the bodice of the gown.
It was often richly decorated with pearls, lace, and other embellishments.
- Farthingale: A farthingale was a hoop skirt worn underneath the dress. It gave the dress a bell-shaped silhouette and created a fashionable full look.
- Ruffs or Collars: Both men and women wore wide, ornate neck ruffs or collars. These could be made of lace, linen, or starch.
3. Common Materials and Trimmings:
- Fabrics: Silk, velvet, wool, and linen were the most commonly used fabrics.
- Trimmings: Clothes were often decorated with trimmings such as lace, embroidery, buttons, ribbons, and pearls.
4. Accessories:
- Hats: Both men and women wore a variety of hats, including flat caps, berets, and feathered hats.
- Shoes: Men typically wore leather boots, while women wore low-heeled shoes.
- Gloves: Gloves were considered fashionable accessories and were worn by both men and women.
5. Social Status:
- Clothing and accessories also served as indicators of social status. Wealthy individuals wore more luxurious fabrics, intricate decorations, and finer craftsmanship.
6. Regional Variations:
- Fashion also varied regionally within England, influenced by local customs and preferences.
While these descriptions provide an overview of Elizabethan fashion, Shakespeare himself would likely have dressed according to his income and social status. As a prominent playwright and actor, it's possible he would have had access to finer clothing for both everyday wear and special occasions during his time.