The 1700 Fashion were a time of wealth and extravagance in fashion, with two major creative styles influencing the era’s trends: the Baroque and the Rococo. Ornate decorations, complex materials, and brilliant colors characterized these two styles, and their impact may still be seen in current design today.
In terms of style and structure, men’s and women’s clothes in the 1700s differed substantially, with men’s fashion being more modest and utilitarian and women’s fashion being more extravagant and decorative. Silk, velvet, and brocade were popular fabrics at the time, and the colors were generally rich and striking.
Hairstyles and cosmetics were also essential components of 1700 fashion, with both men and women putting in a lot of time and effort to look their best. Footwear was an important aspect of fashion throughout this time period, with men wearing high heels and ladies wearing intricate, ornamental shoes.
This page strives to be the definitive reference to 1700 fashion, delving into the features of both the Baroque and Rococo periods, popular materials and colors, hairstyles and cosmetics trends, and footwear styles. We will also analyze the effect of 1700 fashion on the present style and showcase some of the most renowned fashion icons of the time. Whether you are a history buff or simply interested in fashion, this book will give a thorough introduction to this topic.
I. Baroque Fashion (1600-1720)
Baroque fashion was popular in the early 17th century, from roughly 1600 through 1720. It was a time of ornate patterns, rich colors, and exquisite embellishments, and Baroque fashion was profoundly influenced by the period’s arts and culture.
The use of sumptuous textiles such as silk, velvet, and brocade was one of the most distinguishing features of Baroque fashion. These opulent materials were frequently embellished with intricate needlework, lace, and gems, resulting in lavish and extravagant costumes.
Men’s fashion throughout the Baroque period emphasized more functional and practical forms, such as breeches, stockings, and doublets. These outfits were frequently fashioned of rich materials, with embroidery and lace embellishments providing a sense of sophistication.
Women’s dress, on the other hand, was all about extravagance and drama. Baroque dresses were distinguished by their enormous skirts, which were sometimes embellished with padding and hoops. The dress’s neckline was traditionally low and square, with puffed sleeves and a tightly tightened waist heightening the overall dramatic appearance.
Men wore caps, and ladies had elaborate hairstyles and beautiful jewelry. Baroque fashion had an overall impact on wealth and grandeur, with an emphasis on luxury and extravagance.
II. Rococo Fashion (1720-1789)
Rococo fashion developed in the mid-18th century and lasted until the French Revolution in 1789. It was a time of aesthetic and cultural flowering, highlighted by the emergence of the Rococo style in art and architecture, and fashion was no exception.
Rococo attire was distinguished by light, pastel colors, and complex motifs. Silk, muslin, and taffeta were favored fabrics, with designs incorporating delicate flower motifs and elaborate needlework.
Men’s attire throughout the Rococo era remained relatively subdued, with suits and coats featuring plain motifs and solid colors. Women’s attire, on the other hand, was distinguished by intricate and ornate patterns, with gowns boasting voluminous skirts and tight bodices. The gowns were sometimes embellished with bows, ruffles, and lace accents, making them exceedingly feminine.
The sack-back gown, with a tight bodice and a flowing skirt with a train, also appeared in Rococo fashion. These dresses were frequently constructed of light materials like silk and muslin, with delicate flower patterns and embroidery.
Hairstyles were also ornate throughout the Rococo period, with ladies wearing their hair in curled and powdered fashions, typically embellished with feathers, ribbons, and diamonds. Women used light face powder and rouge to attain a porcelain complexion, and makeup was also fashionable.
Women wore wide-brimmed hats and carried fans and parasols, and accessories were a prominent aspect of Rococo fashion. Men often wore caps and carried walking sticks, which were frequently fashioned of precious metals like gold and silver.
III. Fabrics and Colors in 1700s Fashion
During the 1700 Fashion, fabrics, and colors were significant components of fashion. Both Baroque and Rococo fashions used a variety of opulent textiles in a variety of colors ranging from deep and rich to light and airy.
Silk was a popular fabric during this time period, and it was frequently used to make gowns, waistcoats, and jackets. Velvet was another popular fabric, particularly for formal attire, and it was frequently embellished with stitching and ornaments.
During the Baroque period, brocade was a popular fabric. It was frequently woven of silk and had a complex pattern produced by the use of additional weft threads. Brocade was used to make gowns, waistcoats, and jackets, and it was frequently embroidered with gold or silver thread.
Muslin was a light, airy cloth used throughout the Rococo era. It was frequently used to make gowns and undergarments, and it was admired for its delicate texture and ease of drape.
Colors in 1700 Fashion were just as essential as materials. Colors were deep and rich throughout the Baroque period, with burgundy, forest green, and navy blue being popular options. In contrast, Rococo fashion favored softer, pastel colors like pink, lavender, and pale blue. These colors were frequently used with the white or cream-colored cloth to provide a delicate and feminine look.
Patterns were also fashionable during the period, with both men and women favoring flowery designs and exquisite needlework. The use of metallic thread and sequins added a touch of opulence to the garments, making them even more luxurious.
IV. Hairstyles and Makeup in 1700 Fashion
Hairstyles and cosmetics were major components of 1700 fashion, with ladies and men devoting substantial time and effort to achieving the ideal look. From complex hairstyles to complicated cosmetic procedures, these aspects contributed to the era’s overall grandeur and extravagance.
Women’s hairstyles throughout the Baroque period were frequently characterized by a high, powdered, and curled coiffure, with hairpieces and wigs utilized to produce the intended look. These hairstyles were frequently embellished with gems, ribbons, and feathers and might take hours to complete.
Hairstyles were more natural and flowing throughout the Rococo period, with loose curls and waves becoming fashionable. Women’s hair was frequently worn in a loose bun or chignon, with tendrils framing their features. Flowers, ribbons, and other delicate accessories were frequently used in these hairstyles.
During the 1700 Fashion, makeup was also a big part of fashion. Women in the Baroque era frequently wore thick makeup to attain a pale, porcelain complexion. This included using white lead or Venetian ceruse as a foundation, which might be hazardous due to the presence of lead and the potential for skin harm.
Makeup grew more natural throughout the Rococo era, with an emphasis on having a healthy, bright complexion. This was frequently accomplished by applying rouge to the cheeks, which gave them a rosy hue. The lip color was also fashionable, with red and pink tints being preferred.
Both men and women utilized beauty spots or moles, which were tiny, circular patches applied to their bodies.
V. Footwear in 1700 Fashion
Footwear was an important aspect of 1700 fashion, with both men and women donning elaborate and luxurious shoes to complement their outfits. From delicate slippers to towering high heels, footwear during this era was as much about fashion as it was about function.
In the Baroque period, men wore high-heeled shoes with decorative buckles and embroidery, while women favored delicate, flat-soled slippers made from luxurious materials such as silk, velvet, and brocade. These slippers often featured intricate embroidery or embellishments such as bows, ribbons, or jewels.
During the Rococo period, shoes became even more elaborate. Men continued to wear high-heeled shoes, often adorned with decorative buckles and made from luxurious materials such as leather or silk. Women’s shoes became more extravagant, with towering high heels and intricate designs featuring elaborate embroidery and embellishments such as bows, feathers, and jewels.
One of the most iconic styles of footwear during the Rococo period was the pompadour, a type of shoe with a high heel and curved upper that extended over the instep of the foot. These shoes were often adorned with delicate embroidery or lace and were popular among women of all social classes.
Footwear during this era was also designed to reflect the changing fashions of clothing. For example, as skirts became wider during the Rococo period, shoes with a wider toe box were introduced to accommodate the extra volume.
VI. Fashion Icons of 1700
The 1700 Fashion was a time of immense fashion innovation, and many people emerged as style icons throughout this time period. From monarchy to celebrities and socialites, these people established the trends and inspired fashion.
The Queen of France, Marie Antoinette, was one of the most famous characters in 1700 Fashion. Marie Antoinette, known for her lavish taste and love of fashion, became a Rococo-era emblem, with her elaborate costumes, towering hairdo, and costly accessories sparking design trends across Europe.
Madame de Pompadour, a French courtesan and mistress of King Louis XV, was another significant character of the time. Madame de Pompadour was noted for her excellent taste and love of fashion, and she was frequently shown in paintings wearing the season’s newest fashions. She was especially significant in popularising the pompadour shoe, which bears her name.
Sarah Siddons, an actress and fashion star, was a 1700s trendsetter. Siddons, who was known for her beautiful manner and perfect taste, was frequently shown in photographs wearing the latest clothes, which were subsequently replicated by ladies across the country.
Georgiana Cavendish, Duchess of Devonshire, was a notable fashion symbol in England. The Duchess was known for her love of high fashion and expensive taste, and she was frequently shown in photographs wearing the newest fashions of the day. She was also believed to have impacted fashion trends across the country.
Finally, Beau Brummell, a well-known Regency-era fashion designer, was noted for his perfect taste and graceful flair. Brummell was crucial in popularising the modest, minimalist style that emerged in the early nineteenth century, and his legacy continues to influence fashion trends today.
VII. Conclusion
Finally, in 1700 Fashion was a time of immense invention and luxury in dress. From the Baroque through the Rococo periods, fashion was distinguished by opulent materials, sophisticated patterns, and costly accessories. Colors, textiles, haircuts, and footwear were all meticulously chosen to create a statement, and personalities such as Marie Antoinette, Madame de Pompadour, and Beau Brummell became style and taste icons.
While 1700 Fashion may appear to be out of date now, it continues to impact current fashion trends. Many features of 1700 Fashion are still important today, from the use of expensive materials and detailed patterns to the prevalence of high heels and prominent accessories. As a result, the 1700 Fashion heritage goes on, influencing new generations of designers and fashionistas.
