Fashion and Elegance: Hooded Cloaks Men’s Wigs 1729

Antoine Hérisset created this print called ‘Fashion and Elegance: Hooded Cloaks, Men’s Wigs,’ dating back to the 18th century, a time of social stratification and elaborate fashion. This artwork gives us a glimpse into the sartorial habits of the French aristocracy, where clothing was an overt symbol of status and identity. The dresses’ exaggerated silhouettes and ornate fabrics illustrate the period’s emphasis on luxury and display. But it wasn't all just whimsy. Sumptuary laws dictated who could wear what, reinforcing class divisions through fashion. The hooded cloaks themselves, known as ‘Bagnole,’ protected the complex hairstyles and makeup of the elite from the elements. These details are not merely about aesthetics; they represent the constraints and expectations placed on women of the era, whose identities were often closely tied to their appearance and social roles. Consider how these images were consumed. Prints like these circulated among the elite, dictating trends and perpetuating ideals of beauty and refinement. They shape our understanding of the period, even today.