Stomacher

A stomacher is a decorative garment accessory that became popular in European fashion from the 15th to the 18th centuries. It is a triangular panel that fills the front opening of a woman's gown or bodice. The stomacher could be attached in various ways, including pins, laces, or hooks and eyes, and was often elaborately decorated to display wealth and status. The use of stomachers was prevalent in the fashion of the Tudor period, Elizabethan era, and into the Baroque and Rococo periods.

History and Use

The stomacher served both functional and aesthetic purposes. Functionally, it provided additional support to the bodice and could be easily replaced or altered for different occasions without the need to change the entire garment. Aesthetically, it was a focal point for embellishment and fashion expression. Stomachers were often richly adorned with embroidery, lace, jewels, and other decorations that reflected the wearer's wealth and social status. During the Tudor period, stomachers were an essential part of a woman's wardrobe. They were typically stiff and might include boning for added structure. As fashion evolved, the designs and decorations of stomachers became more elaborate. In the Elizabethan era, they were often decorated with pearls, gemstones, and intricate needlework. The Baroque and Rococo periods saw the stomacher reach its peak in terms of decoration and complexity. These eras favored opulent designs, and stomachers were no exception. They featured elaborate patterns, floral motifs, and were often made from luxurious fabrics like silk and satin.

Decline

The popularity of the stomacher began to decline in the late 18th century as fashion trends shifted towards simpler, more classical lines inspired by the Ancient Greek and Rome aesthetics. This change marked the transition to the Empire silhouette, which did not accommodate the stomacher. By the early 19th century, the stomacher had largely fallen out of fashion.

Cultural Significance

Beyond its fashion significance, the stomacher also held cultural and symbolic meanings. It was not merely a decorative item but could signify a woman's marital status, wealth, and social standing. In some cases, stomachers were given as gifts and could be highly personalized items carrying sentimental value.

Surviving Examples

Today, stomachers are primarily found in museum collections and are studied for their historical and artistic value. They offer insights into the fashion, materials, and craftsmanship of their respective periods. Museums with notable collections of historical costumes, such as the Victoria and Albert Museum in London and the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York, house exquisite examples of stomachers.

See Also

• History of clothing in the Western world
• Fashion in the period 1500–1550
• Fashion in the period 1550–1600
• Fashion in the period 1600–1650
• Fashion in the period 1650–1700