Habit of Lady Sophia in 1700

by Thomas Jefferys

"Habit of Lady Sophia," an etching produced by Thomas Jefferys (c. 1757-1772), offers an interesting insight into the European mania for aristocratic national clothing of the mid-eighteenth century. Although generally considered as a fashion piece from the eighteenth century, it illustrates the gradual shift to the more ornate Rococo silhouette.

Lady Sophia is shown dressed in a "habit," a concept which refers to a complete ensemble, comprising her large petticoat, tight stomacher, and the lace work characteristic of the mid-eighteenth century. It can be argued that this illustration functions not only as a fashion document but also as a sociological commentary on high society behavior and the aristocratic culture of the era.