A tall, cone-shaped headdress worn by women in the 15th and 16th centuries, often decorated with veils or fabric trailing behind it.
From Middle Dutch 'henne' or French origin, the word emerged in the 15th century to describe this distinctive fashion item. The tall, pointed shape inspired the name, which may relate to words meaning 'to rise' or 'to stand.' It became especially popular during the Renaissance period.
Hennins could be over 12 inches tall and made women look like walking towers—they were so impractical that doorways had to be widened in some castles! Despite their awkwardness, they signaled wealth and status because only rich people could afford the fabric and had servants to help them balance these architectural disasters on their heads.
A tall medieval headdress worn exclusively by women of status; gendered garment associated with feminine beauty and class hierarchies.
Use neutrally when discussing historical dress; acknowledge it as gendered historical artifact.
The hennin represented women's wealth and status in medieval society; its elaborate construction required skilled female craftsmanship in millinery and design.
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