Wigs and Fine Lace

S1 E3: The 16th century was illuminated by the discovery of new lands. The 17th century was dazzled by the splendor of Versailles. The 18th century adopted the virtues of enlightened spirits. All of these eras shared a common peculiarity: the art of constraining the body through stayed bodices and ruff and tar collars around the neck. Many endured quite a bit of pain for the sake of beauty.