Supportasse

Follower of Robert Peake the Elder Portrait of a Lady in a lace collar

A supportasse is a type of collar that was popular during the late 16th century and early 17th century. It is characterized by its large, stiff, and often elaborately decorated structure, which was designed to support the weight of heavy ruffs worn around the neck. The supportasse was an essential accessory in Elizabethan fashion, particularly among the nobility and aristocracy.

Design and Construction

Supportasses were typically made from materials such as whalebone, steel, or other rigid substances that could provide the necessary support for the ruffs. They were often covered with fine fabrics like silk or linen and decorated with lace, embroidery, and other embellishments. The design of a supportasse could vary, but it generally featured a framework that extended from the back of the neck and shoulders, creating a platform for the ruff to rest upon.

Historical Context

The use of supportasses became prominent during the reign of Queen Elizabeth I, a period known for its elaborate and extravagant fashion. The ruff, which the supportasse was designed to hold, was a symbol of wealth and status. As ruffs grew larger and more ornate, the need for a sturdy support structure became apparent, leading to the development of the supportasse.

Decline in Use

The popularity of the supportasse declined in the early 17th century as fashion trends shifted. The ruff gradually fell out of favor, replaced by other types of collars and neckwear that did not require such extensive support. By the mid-17th century, the supportasse had largely disappeared from fashion.

Related Pages

• Ruff (clothing)
• Elizabethan fashion
• Collar (clothing)
• Whalebone (material)
• Embroidery
• Lace