Medici Collars Then and Now
The ultimate extension of the ruffs, or wide pleated collars, that were so popular among the wealthy in the sixteenth century was the Medici collar. A Medici collar provided a large, decorative frame around the sides and back of a woman’s head. The collar was typically worn with a gown with a décolleté neckline, a low neckline that revealed a woman’s cleavage. Supported by wire or heavy starch, these collars of lace, embroidered satin, or some other light material could reach great heights, towering over the shoulders and head of the wearer. They might be studded with tiny jewels and could be worn with a normal ruff if desired. Today these ruffs have taken on a new life with the help of McQueen and Van Herpen. To achieve a similar look, wear a popped collar and layer with a vest over top to resemble the low neckline the medici collar was traditionally paired with!