Description
This bum roll served as an Elizabethan alternative to the larger farthingale, providing subtle shaping beneath a lady’s gown. Made from sturdy cotton and filled with lightweight batting, it was fashioned to wrap snugly around the hips, lifting the skirt just enough to improve airflow and allow freer movement. The roll ties at the front, enabling the wearer to adjust the fit according to comfort. In the 16th century, women wore this undergarment to achieve the period’s distinctive silhouette, which emphasized the hips without the weight and stiffness of a full farthingale. Fun fact: Compact leather bum rolls were sometimes preferred by travelers for their lighter weight and ease of packing compared to bulkier farthingales, making them a practical choice on the road.
