Journal #11

Q: How did the clothing of members of the puritan and royalist factions in the English Civil War differ? What seems to have been the basis for these differences?

A: The royalist faction, also known as Cavaliers, were known for being very flamboyant and showy. They loved their clothes to reflect that; they wore bright colors and highly decorated fabrics. However, the Puritans dressed in very simple clothing that did not often have shape and was of a darker or blander color. The clearest reason for these differences would be their way of life. The Puritans wanted a simply life and were very strict in committing to the simple life in both action and appearance. However, as we have been learning about in some of our most recent lectures, the royals and the rich felt the need to shove their wealth in your face. This attitude/set of ideals coincides quite clearly with how they dressed. They were insistent on making their status known and that is quite the opposite of the Puritans which explains why their dress was so different.