Fashion In The 17th Century

1. According to the author, forces in society such as fashion fads and education level are responsible for changes in how people dressed throughout history. In 17th century Europe, after seeing the aristocracy wearing heeled shoes, lower ranked men in society began to wear heeled shoes too. The trend of wearing high heels spread to women and children. In the time of the Enlightenment, men involved in the intellectual movement began to dress in more simplified clothing. A majority of men would cease to wear their flashy jewelry and bright, elaborate clothing.

2. The way a person dresses can exhibit power by portraying their wealth and status in society. For example, in 17th century Europe, men in higher ranks in society would wear higher heels

than normal, and the color of the shoe was normally red since it was an expensive dye.

3. Today, men and women show their power in numerous ways such as obtaining luxurious assets (for example, expensive cars, yachts, airplanes), owning multiple businesses, and renaming facilities after themselves.