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farthingale
Definition
(Noun) A large 'bustle ' worn by women of the higher social class. It would raise the back of the dress's skirt slightly above the waist and exaggerate the width of the lady's hips. A small waist displayed the lady's high status and her inability to perform common labors. The farthingale weighed anywhere from 12-30lb, and the wearer needed to be dressed. This style was popular in the 1400s and 1500s.Usage: Lady Grace had to remain seated at the holiday soiree but the lovely and flattering shape that her undergarment gave to her new gown was worth suffering with the farthingale's weight.
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