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Ever wondered what it would be like to wear a tower of lace on your head? No? Well, Renaissance folks did, and they called it the Fontange. This isn't just any old hat we're talking about - it's a piece of history that screams "go big or go home" in the language of fashion. So, let's unpack this architectural marvel of the hair world and see why it was all the rage back in the day.
Imagine: it's 1680, and you're at a royal hunting party. Suddenly, the wind messes up your perfectly coiffed hair. Disaster, right? Not if you're Mademoiselle de Fontange, one of King Louis XIV's favorites. Legend has it that she tied up her windblown locks with a ribbon, creating a towering style that caught the King's eye. And just like that, a fashion revolution was born.
Now, let's get into the specifics of this head-turning headpiece.
The Fontange wasn't just a simple ribbon - oh no, it evolved into a complex structure of wire, lace, and ribbon that could reach heights of up to two feet. It was like wearing a skyscraper on your head, only softer and way more fashionable.
As with all good fashion trends, the Fontange came in various styles. Some were modest affairs, while others were so elaborate they probably needed their own zip code. The style varied depending on the wearer's social status, the occasion, and personal preference.
The Fontange wasn't just about looking good (although that was a big part of it). It played a significant role in Renaissance society.
In an era where women's fashion in renaissance was all about making a statement, the Fontange was the ultimate exclamation point. It was a symbol of status, wealth, and fashion-forwardness. Wearing a Fontange was like having a giant neon sign above your head that said, "I'm kind of a big deal."
The Fontange didn't just influence headwear - it changed the entire silhouette of women's fashion. Dresses were designed to balance out the towering headdresses, leading to wider skirts and lower necklines. It was a full-body commitment to fashion.
Wearing a Fontange wasn't just a matter of plopping it on your head and calling it a day. It was an art form.
While you might think such an elaborate headdress was reserved for special occasions, you'd be wrong. The Fontange was worn for everything from formal court events to casual strolls in the garden. It was the Renaissance equivalent of "I woke up like this."
The Fontange wasn't a solo act - it was part of an ensemble. It was often paired with low-cut bodices, full skirts, and plenty of lace and ribbons. The goal was to create a harmonious look from head to toe, with the Fontange as the crowning glory.
Like all good things, the reign of the Fontange eventually came to an end. By the early 18th century, simpler hairstyles began to take over. But the Fontange left its mark on fashion history, influencing hat designs for centuries to come.
You might think the Fontange is purely a thing of the past, but you'd be surprised.
The Fontange lives on at Renaissance fairs and historical reenactments. It's a favorite among costume enthusiasts who want to channel their inner 17th-century fashionista. And let's be honest, who doesn't want to try wearing a small building on their head at least once in their life?
The legacy of the Fontange can still be seen in modern fashion. From avant-garde runway shows to wedding veils, the influence of this towering headdress continues to inspire designers and fashion lovers alike.
The Fontange may seem outrageous to our modern eyes, but it's a testament to the creativity and boldness of Renaissance fashion. It reminds us that fashion is about more than just clothes - it's about self-expression, cultural statements, and sometimes, defying gravity with your hairstyle.
While we may not be wearing two-foot-tall lace towers on our heads anymore, we can still channel the spirit of the Fontange in our own fashion choices. It's all about being bold, making a statement, and not being afraid to stand out.
So, the next time you're browsing our wide range of plus size renaissance dress, why not imagine how you'd pair it with a Fontange? You might not be ready to wear one in real life, but a little Renaissance-inspired daydreaming never hurt anyone.
