18th century :: essays research papers

The Eighteenth CenturyDuring the 18th century, Louis XV became the King of France at age 5. A new style, Rococo, was introduced which created a more tenuous and delicate appearance with an asymmetrical balance. Also, during this period of time France was involved in many wars which caused the country to go into debt. Louis XV died in 1774 who was kn knowledge to be the or so hated king. His grandson, Louis XVI became king. At the age of 14, he married an Austrian princess, Marie Antoinette, who did not like the customs and etiquette of the French court. Due to the success of the American Revolution, which France assist in the financing of, Frenchmen were encouraged to reform the government and society. In 1789, the French government went bankrupt resulting in the writing of the constitution. The center of France became Paris. Louis XV, at the age of 13, returned to Versailles and the castle was once again the center of royal life. It became not as important during the reign of L ouis XVI, because of Queen Marie Antoinette and her dislike of the French etiquette. She was extravagant in her spending when France was having financial difficulty. Marie and her friend created a fashion for peasant-style dresses and hats. Her lifestyle was a cause in the decline of support for the monarchy. For England, the center of fashion was London, save small towns and country estates had their own social class structure and had an interest in fashion. Fashionable clothing was divided based on the time of day. Mens garments were divided by undress or lounging clothes, dress was daytime or evening wear, and full dress was the most formal evening dress. Nightgown was not for sleeping but a dressing gown or informal robe that was worn indoors. A powdering jacket was worn when the men had their wigs powdered. Womens clothing was divided as undress, half dress or morning dress. Habit was a riding costume or a tailor-made costume. Her coat was not for outdoors, but was the petti coat. Her coat was called a greatcoat.The Flying Shuttle was invented in 1733, which increased the production of clothing. Cotton became less expensive. Textiles that had elaborate and sophisticated patterns were manufactured in Europe. The 18th century influenced manly tailors to make mens suits and coasts and women make dresses for women.The 18th century styles reflected the increased trade between Europe and the Far East.