Final answer:
Gowns in the 15th century were tailored according to social status and were made from various fabrics like wool, linen, and silk for the affluent. Men's attire varied from simple garments to elaborate, embellished court wear. Clothing not only served aesthetic functions but also conveyed social and professional roles.
Step-by-step explanation:
The 15th-century gowns were diverse and reflective of social status, wealth, and occupation. During this time, gowns for women were often characterized by a fitted bodice and a full skirt that extended to the ground, sometimes supported by a farthingale to give shape and structure. Gowns were made from a variety of materials, including wool, linen, and for the wealthier classes, silk and velvet. They often featured elaborate embellishments such as fur trimmings, embroidery, and bejeweled adornments.
Men's attire varied from simple tunics to more elaborate court wear, often including doublets, hose, and sometimes robes or mantles. The nobility had access to fine fabrics and elaborate designs, while commoners wore more practical garments. Some men's outfits included two-piece ensembles commonly found in archaeological evidence.
In both cases, colors and patterns were indicative of trends and sometimes of political or social messages. The royal court attire, as shown in manuscript illuminations, displays the fine use of silk with patterns, such as those worn by Emperor Alexios V. Gowns also signified one's role, such as the toga worn by prostitutes as a mark of their profession, or the stola worn by Roman matrons.
The use of clothing to convey social signals was a pertinent feature, showcasing luxury as well as modesty in different social contexts. Manuscript illuminations and remaining textiles give insight into the intricate designs and prominence of silk in ceremonial wear. Attention to adornments such as sleeves, which could be switched out for a fresh look, was common among the nobility of the Tudor era and later.