The Journal of Dress History - The Association of Dress Historians. Louis XIV Baroque Era Culture and Characteristics. Louis XIV King of France wearing an "habit a la franchise" with slimmer elongated styles (birth of the justaucorps), vest, culotte, long cloth coat fitted at chest and flared skirt bottom, chemise and Cravat - Ruffs were no longer part of the French style. French Baroque Fashion Under Reign of Louis XIV. Louis XIV Baroque inspired fashion - Michael Cinco's. Louis XIV inspired fashion (women's current fashion inspired by men's fashion *note the cravat) - Dolce and Gabana.
Women’s fashion during the reign of Louis XIV - Silhouette becomes more V shaped due to bodice - short sleeves with galants (Bows/Ribbons) - Petticoats become heavier due to falbalas (adornments) - Bottom part of Mantua (dress) pulled to create volume. Culture Mechanism: Baroque Fashion. Similar to the art and architectural characteristics of the era, Baroque fashion emulated excessive grandeur.
The period was defined by natural silhouetting curves, flowing lines, gold filigree, rich colors, and voluptuousness while the clothing was embroidered with lace, pearls, ribbons, and golden designs. While Renaissance clothing was cluttered with an over abundance of pattern and decoration, Baroque was concerned with making the excess not too excessive. A feature that is unique to Baroque culture is the starting of separate pieces of clothing that match. A normal Renaissance dress is two pieces that are mixed-and-matched, but a Baroque skirt would be paired with a matching top usually made of the same fabric (later this would become the modern-day suit).