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Elizabethan costume

Elizabethan costume reflects the fashion trends of England during Queen Elizabeth I's reign (1558–1603). Men and women wore elaborate, highly decorated clothing signifying wealth and status. Women’s dresses featured fitted bodices, wide skirts supported by hoops, and intricate embroidery, often with rich fabrics like velvet and silk. Men wore doublets, hose, and cloaks, with ruffled collars and embroidered details. Accessories such as ruffs, headpieces, and jewelry were common. The style emphasized display of social rank, with higher classes showcasing opulence through luxurious materials and detailed craftsmanship. Elizabethan costume remains iconic, highlighting the period’s emphasis on status and aesthetics.