Ruff Collor Collection
"Exploring the Fashion of Ruff Collars: A Glimpse into Renaissance Elegance" Step back in time to the 16th and 17th centuries
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"Exploring the Fashion of Ruff Collars: A Glimpse into Renaissance Elegance" Step back in time to the 16th and 17th centuries, where fashion was a statement of power and prestige. Among the various trends that emerged during this period, one accessory stood out - the ruff collar. This captivating piece of neckwear became synonymous with nobility and sophistication. One notable figure who embraced this fashion was Margaret of Austria, Queen of Spain. In her portrait painted around 1610, she exudes regal grace while sporting an exquisite ruff collar made from delicate lace or fine linen. Another influential personality associated with ruffs is Michel Eyquem de Montaigne. An engraving capturing his likeness showcases him wearing a more modest version of this fashionable adornment, reflecting his intellectual pursuits as a renowned philosopher. The allure of ruff collars extended beyond portraits; they were also depicted in lithographs like "Les Affiches Etrangeres" from 1897. These prints showcased individuals from different walks of life donning these elaborate neckpieces, providing insight into their social status and roles within society. At courtly gatherings during King Charles IX's reign in France (1575), gentlemen could be seen wearing intricately designed ruffs that added grandeur to their attire. Lithographs from later years captured these ensembles, allowing us to appreciate the craftsmanship involved in creating such ornate collars. Not limited to men alone, women also embraced this trend as seen through depictions like those portraying Jean Louis de Nogaret de La Valette or Francis de Lorraine II. Their elegant costumes featured beautifully crafted ruffs that accentuated their noble stature. Even figures outside royalty indulged in this fashion craze; Jacques of Savoy's portrait reveals a dashing Duke adorned with an impressive ruff collar fit for his esteemed position.