Baroque and Rococo 

Baroque and Rococo eras existed from 1650-1800s.

The rise of King Louis XIV, in the 16^th century marked the beginning of a new fashion era. The Baroque period came into existence and with that the definition of fashion changed. This was the time when the influence of art, culture, and fashion shifted from Versailles to Paris, and French fashion was adopted as world fashion.

The Baroque period was marked in the fashion history for its sheer indulgence, extravagance, and luxury. Unlike the other periods in Europe, fashion was no longer confined to the upper classes; baroque period presented the lower classes with the freedom of keeping up with the new styles and fashion trends. This was also the time where fashion designers were on a rise, being in demand by the higher as well as the middle classes.

This era was distinguished by its rich use of brilliant colours and fabrics. Natural silhouettes became popular with the use of grandeur and intricate embellishments like ribbons, pearls, lace, and gold embroideries. The upper class indulged in a variety of expensive fabrics like silks, velvets, and brocades of the most beautiful colours and patterns. In contrast to this the poor sections of the society could only afford to wear wool.

Women’s clothing and silhouettes also transformed into much simpler and comfortable forms than the previous eras. From the tight corsets, non-breathable garments and unmanageable skirts the silhouettes changed to more flowing and natural with layered skirts. The plunging necklines with lace, known as the décolletage were also a popular trend during the time.

The extravagance did not end with the clothing. Hair and makeup trends became an important element to indulge in. with the new and fancy hairstyles, and the rouges for lips and cheeks, hair and makeup also became a part of the daily extravagance.

Similar to the women’s fashion, men’s fashion also went through major changes during the baroque period. The clothing became more comfortable and extravagant. Men’s clothing changed into knee length, high waist breeches and ruffled lace collars and cuffs. Square toed shoes and high heeled boots became popular, along with extravagant wigs and curly hairstyles.

Rococo Era came into existence at the beginning of the 18^th century. This was the time of a significant cultural shift that occurred in France; art, culture, and fashion gained new importance. The new fashion trends did not only affect the royals and the aristocrats but also the middle and the lower classes. Louis XVs mistress Madame Pompadour was the main figure behind the introduction of the Rococo fashion. It was her love for light, floral patterns and pastel colours that started the new trends and came to be known as Rococo fashion.

This was the time when fashion designers gained more important and influenced the people of all social classes with the latest styles and trends. Fashion magazines were the new go-to thing to keep up with the latest fashion. The most important iconic fashion figures during the era were Madame Pompadour, Marie Antoinette, and her dressmaker Rose Bertin.

With the Rococo Era, women’s clothing and fashion took a new turn. New silhouettes were developing and the fashions were changing. The natural silhouettes were transformed into elaborate and full skirts. Panniers and wide hoops came into trend, they were worn under the skirts to make it a full skirt with the cinched up waist provided by the tight and constructing corsets. Gowns with tight bodices and plunging necklines also became popular among women. Women’s heels became fancier with much more slimmer and daintier heels. Powdered   wigs and towering hairstyles adorned with flowers, ribbons and feathers became part of the daily outfit.

Men’s fashion also incorporated minor changes during the Rococo Era. The basic coat, waistcoat, and breeches were transformed into more extravagant versions. The coats and waistcoats became flowing and more decorative with lavish embroidery and embellishments. Knee length breeches with white stockings and heeled boots were popular among men.