Overview

People living in England in the 1500's, during the reign of Queen Elizabeth I, would have found an on-line clothing catalog helpful. Assembling an outfit for a well-dressed Elizabethan could involve trips to many districts throughout London, each known for a different product. In addition to the jewelers, cappers, and shoemakers mentioned here, other specialized craftspeople included hosiers (who made stockings), silkwomen (who made ribbons and trims), glovers, pinners, embroiderers, and lacemakers. Some had their own shops, and some supplied goods to other vendors.

Although Elizabethans bought accessories, undergarments, and fabrics in London's shops, they did not buy new gowns and suits. These garments were custom-made to an individual's measurements. People with enough money to pay a professional brought their fabrics to a tailor and specified the style they wanted. Others wore clothing made at home.