The Statute of Apparel 1463

The Statute of Apparel 1463 was a law enacted in England aimed at regulating how people dressed, particularly to prevent the use of unauthorized or overly elaborate clothing by commoners. It required individuals to wear specific types of clothing based on their social status and prohibited wearing certain garments associated with nobility unless permitted. The law sought to reinforce social distinctions and prevent fraud or misrepresentation through fashion. Overall, it was an effort to maintain social order by controlling clothing choices and ensuring that dress reflected one’s true rank or position in society.