Discover the styles of the 17th and 18th centuries

Clothing has always been an important part of society. Often indicating one’s social status or country of origin, fashion has stood for more than just style. From leather to linen, listen to historical interpreters talk about the garments that made 17th- and 18th-century history.

17th-century clothing

Did you know that in the 17th century, men typically wore stockings? Learn about other surprising styles and fashions of this era.

18th-century clothing

Layers, layers, layers! 18th-century fashion was anything but simple. Can you guess which piece of commonly-worn clothing was made from the roof of a whale’s mouth? Explore the video to find out.

Powhatan clothing

The Powhatan people made beautiful clothes out of the area’s natural resources but you may be surprised to learn which animals the Powhatan sourced for clothing. Watch the video to learn more.

More to see and learn at Jamestown Settlement and the American Revolution Museum at Yorktown