Panniers

Definition

Panniers are a type of structured undergarment worn in the 18th century, primarily during the Baroque and Rococo periods, designed to extend the width of a woman's skirt at the sides. These garments created a dramatic silhouette that emphasized femininity and elegance, which was a hallmark of the fashion trends during these styles. Panniers not only provided volume but also served as a means to support the elaborate designs and embellishments of dresses characteristic of that era.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Panniers were popularized in France during the 17th century and became widely adopted in the 18th century, especially at court events and formal occasions.
2. They were typically worn over a chemise and under the main dress, allowing for greater volume and dramatic silhouettes that were central to Baroque and Rococo aesthetics.
3. The width of panniers could vary significantly, with some designs extending several feet outwards from the body, creating a striking visual effect.
4. Panniers were often adorned with embroidery, lace, and other decorative elements, aligning with the elaborate fashions of the time.
5. The decline in the popularity of panniers occurred in the late 18th century as fashion shifted towards simpler lines and silhouettes with the advent of neoclassical styles.

Review Questions

• How did panniers influence the overall silhouette and fashion trends during the Baroque and Rococo periods?
  • Panniers significantly influenced the silhouette of women's fashion by creating an exaggerated width at the sides of skirts, which became a defining characteristic of styles during the Baroque and Rococo periods. This wide silhouette emphasized femininity and allowed for elaborate dress designs that showcased opulent fabrics and decorations. The use of panniers enabled women to wear intricately designed gowns that reflected their social status while also adhering to the aesthetics of luxury and grandeur prevalent in those eras.
• Discuss how panniers contributed to the social dynamics within the court during the Baroque and Rococo periods.
  • Panniers not only affected fashion but also played a role in social dynamics at court by influencing how women presented themselves in high society. The exaggerated width created by panniers could symbolize wealth and status, as elaborate clothing indicated one's place within the social hierarchy. Furthermore, wearing such voluminous skirts restricted movement, reinforcing gender norms of femininity and propriety that were valued in courtly settings. This contributed to a culture where appearance was paramount in establishing one’s identity among peers.
• Evaluate how the transition from panniers to more simplified styles reflected changes in societal attitudes towards women’s fashion by the end of the 18th century.
  • The transition from panniers to simpler styles marked a significant shift in societal attitudes towards women's fashion as it reflected a move towards practicality and away from excessive ornamentation. By the end of the 18th century, neoclassical influences began to prioritize natural forms over artificial silhouettes created by structured garments like panniers. This change indicated an evolving view on femininity, where comfort and freedom were increasingly valued over ostentatious displays. It also mirrored broader cultural shifts towards enlightenment ideals that emphasized rationality and modesty, suggesting a desire for women's fashion to align more closely with these emerging principles.

Related terms

crinoline: A stiffened or structured fabric, often made from horsehair or cotton, used in skirts to add volume and shape, similar to panniers but popular in the mid-19th century.

hoop skirt:

A framework of hoops made from metal or fabric that supports a wide skirt, similar to panniers but typically used in later styles.

Rococo fashion: An artistic movement and style of fashion characterized by ornate detail, asymmetry, and a playful use of color and patterns, reflecting the luxurious lifestyle of the upper class during the 18th century.