Bridal Habit of a Swiss Lady in 1577

by Thomas Jefferys

This beautiful plate depicts the Bridal Habit of a Swiss Lady in 1577, a rare depiction of the clothing worn by nobles during the late 16th century, as portrayed by the well-known geographer and engraver Thomas Jefferys. Unlike the constricted clothing of the royal courts of France and Spain in the same period, the Bridal Habit was influenced by the combination of modesty in the period of religious Reformation and increasing prosperity in Switzerland.

The outfit has a solid, strong silhouette and features a high neck as well as famous puffy sleeves, which were characteristic of the Renaissance period. Made of luxurious wool or velvet, it had elaborate embroidery and laces to emphasize the status of the bride. The headdress, typical for Swiss ladies of noble descent, was placed on the woman's head, signifying purity and readiness to become the mistress of the house.