King Henry’s VIII Six Wives - The Women of the Tudor Age

King Henry’s VIII Six Wives - The Women of the Tudor Age

Delving deeper into the historical exposition of fashion, our attention is irresistibly drawn towards King Henry VIII's six wives, each a captivating character with a unique influence on fashion. These women encapsulated the evolving trends of their era, ultimately shaping court fashion from the Elizabethan period through to the Baroque and Rococo periods. 

Let's begin not with Catherine of Aragon, but Anne Boleyn, whose ascension to the throne signified a noteworthy change in court style. Indubitably an ITGirl fashionista of her time, Anne Boleyn redefined English courtly fashion by introducing the continental flair she acquired during her years in France. Her preference for snug bodices and the French hood -a stark contrast to the earlier Gable Hood favored by Catherine of Aragon, cemented her reputation as a trendsetter. 

Her successor, Jane Seymour, took a more conservative approach, somewhat reinstating the traditional fashion abandoned by Anne. Her attire encapsulated the proverbial Tudor women's style - modest, yet elegant. Seymour often opted for the Spanish farthingale and a high collar, usually paired with long sleeves. This arrangement, as portrayed by Francis Hayman in his rendition of the Queen, redefined the paradigm of modesty and elegance. 

Anne of Cleves’ style, albeit short-lived in court, introduced an eclectic twist to English royal fashion, her attire bearing the unmistakable hint of her German ancestry. Her portrait by Hans Holbein the Younger immaculately showcases her fashion sensibility - broad lapels, fur trimmings, a flat hood, and characteristic German sleeves. 

Catherine Howard, the fifth wife, was known for her ostentatious style and indulgence in flamboyant fabrics and ornaments. The court fashion under her reign was marked by extravagant accessories and glittering jewels, making it align closely with the opulent fashion of the budding Baroque period. 

Lastly, Catherine Parr, the surviving wife of King Henry VIII, was known for her refined and sophisticated fashion sense. Although there are rare visual evidences to depict her style, historical records suggest a penchant for velvets, damasks and the usage of fur – the epitome of nobility and grandeur during those times. Interestingly, she is also associated with the term redingote, due to an anecdotal piece featuring her wearing a long cloak cut like a man’s overcoat. 

Each of King Henry VIII's wives brought a unique influence to court fashion. From the passion of Anne Boleyn's continental style, the modest elegance of Jane Seymour, the eclectic fashion of Anne of Cleves, the glittering ostentation of Catherine Howard, to the refined sophistication of Catherine Parr - these women have endlessly fascinated and inspired, leaving a timeless imprint on the tapestry of fashion history