The Clothing of the Common Sort, 1570-1700

The Clothing of the Common Sort focuses on the clothing of children and young adults of the 'common sort' during the period 1570 to 1700—the sons and daughters of 'ordinary' people going about their daily lives in towns and villages across England. The study employs a number of approaches, including quantitative research and examination of the few relevant extant objects. A range of sources have been used, including probate accounts and poor relief records. The volume also examines the acquisition of clothing, from purchase of fabric, through production by tailors and 'women with a needle', to payment for ready-made items.

This book offers a glimpse into the wardrobes of children and adolescents of the 'common sort', 1570 to 1700. It also uncovers evidence of the myriad tradesmen, craftsmen, artisans and 'women with a needle' who were involved in the production and dissemination of clothing and accessories in towns and villages across England in the late 16th and 17th centuries.

?Margaret Spufford, Formerly Research Professor in Social and Local History, University of Roehampton,Susan Mee, Independant Scholar, Tutor for the WEA

?Margaret Spufford O.B.E., M.A., Ph.D., Litt.D., Hon. Litt.D. (Keele), F.R.Hist.S., F.B.A. was a Social Historian of early modern England whose reputation was made by a series of pioneering books & articles. Whilst a teaching fellow at Newnham College, Cambridge she accumulated a large group of students who called themselves 'the Spuffordians'. In 1995 Margaret began the British Academy Hearth Tax project & by the time of her death in 2014 eight large county volumes had been published. For most of her life she was an Oblate of the Anglican Benedictine Nunnery at West Malling, Kent. Margaret was married to Peter Spufford, Emeritus Professor of European History at the University of Cambridge. Her son is the author, Francis Spufford. Her daughter, Bridget, predeceased her.

Susan Mee BA Hons. (1st Class), MA (Dist.), Ph.D is a Social Historian who specialises in the History of Textiles & Dress. Her research interests include the textiles & dress of the 16th to 18th centuries, & the Art Deco period (c.1909-1939). Susan has worked with museum collections of historic dress in Suffolk, Shropshire & Herefordshire. She is currently employed as an independent lecturer & researcher, & as a tutor for the WEA. Susan is married & has two children & one grandchild. She lives in Suffolk.