Elizabethan head coverings, Part 3- The Coif

The Coif

(source: http://dressingterpsichore.artemis.io/the-coif-question/)

The coif was a close fitting cap made of white linen. It was often used to keep the hair in place and worn under more elaborate hats. Furthermore the coif was worn by all classes but of course depending to which class you belonged to the decoration of the coif changed. The coif's during the Elizabethan era  were decorated with blackwork embroidery or lace.

(source: http://web.comhem.se/~u31138198/whitecap.html)

Portrait of a Lady by Anthonis Mor around 1555-1560

(source: http://thepragmaticcostumer.wordpress.com/2013/06/05/the-ultimate-one-pattern-piece-project-elizabethan-coif/)

Portrait of a bride by Johannes Cornelisz Verspronck

(source: http://www.wornthrough.com/2009/07/22/an-english-coif-with-embroidery/)

Coif with blackwork embroidery