Sunday, November 17, 2013

Puritan Clothing

            Boston in the 1600s was the new home to the incoming Puritans of the time. These people had fled England to find independence in the Americas where they can create a world of their own. The society they had established forced its citizens to lead a "pure" and religious life. Therefore, their humbleness had them wear plain and conservative clothing. 
            Dressing to Puritan uniform consisted of many layers. A woman first slipped on stockings and underpants. Then, she threw on her petticoat, followed by the bodice and skirt. Next, she costumes the skirt with an outer gown. Afterwards, she puts on a chemise, like a collared shirt with long sleeves. Finally, she garbs the outfit with an apron on the dress and a bonnet for the head. For the men, it is a slightly different story. First, he routinely clothes himself in stockings and underpants like the women do. Then, he attires over knee-length breeches. Next, he puts on a loosed cuffed shirt. Finally, he suits his costume with a vest, as a hat would cover his head too.
           Contrary to popular opinion, Puritans did not always wear black. Only the wealthy wore black as black dye was very costly. Most Puritans dressed in brown or indigo because brown vegetable and indigo dyes were plentiful. However, vibrant hues were frowned upon wearing due to the attention they attracted. 

Sources:

http://www.ehow.com/info_8451215_description-puritans-wore.html
endtimepilgrim.org/puritans.htm




No comments:

Post a Comment