Habit of a Swedish Lady of Quality in 1577

by Thomas Jefferys

This striking plate represents the "Dress of a Swedish Lady of Quality" that was fashionable towards the end of the 16th century. In contrast to the extravagant ruffs worn at the French and Spanish royal courts, the aristocrats of Sweden preferred their silhouette in a shape of elegance and heaviness—a necessity for a Baltic climate.

Published in the series A Collection of the Dresses of Different Nations by Thomas Jeffreys between 1757 and 1772, the costume consists of a high necked partlet, together with a padded bodice that was typically accompanied by a big over-gown. Her outfit speaks not only about her social class but also illustrates an important aspect of that time's society when sumptuary laws were in effect: the better fur and longer sleeves the lady wore, the higher status she had. The print illustrates how Sweden emerged as a great power during the era of the Vasas.