Habit of a Woman of Cologne in 1640

by Thomas Jefferys

It can be argued that this beautiful copperplate engraving is one of the best images from Thomas Jefferys’ important book, A Collection of the Dresses of Different Nations. Although created in the 18th century, the picture depicts a fashion in Cologne in 1640, which is characterized by the transformation from the strict Renaissance style to the more relaxed Baroque era.

As regards the “Habit”, it is an example of how local features could be combined with the general fashion trends of those days. The unique heavy drapery worn together with a special headdress served as an indicator of good upbringing and respectable background of a lady.