Hessian (boot)
Hessian (/ˈhɛsiən/; from Hesse in Germany) refers to a style of light boot that became popular from the beginning of the 19th century.[1]
History and description
First worn by German soldiers in the 18th century, these military riding boots became popular in England, particularly during the Regency period (1811-1820), with their polished leather and ornamental tassels. Initially used as standard issue footwear for light cavalry regiments, especially hussars, they would become widely worn by civilians as well.[2]
The boots had a low heel, and a semi-pointed toe that made them practical for mounted troops, as they allowed easy use of stirrups.[3] They reached to the knee and had a decorative tassel at the top of each shaft, with a "v" notch in front.[4] The Hessian boot would evolve into the rubber work boots known as "wellies" and the cowboy boot.
See also
References
- ^ Carman, W.Y. A Dictionary of Military Uniform. p. 72. ISBN 0-684-15130-8.
- ^ Fiona McDonald (30 July 2006). Shoes and Boots Through History. Gareth Stevens. ISBN 978-0-8368-6857-9. Retrieved 26 January 2012.
- ^ Chambers's encyclopaedia: a dictionary of universal knowledge. W. & R. Chambers, Limited. 1901. pp. 321–. Retrieved 27 January 2012.
- ^ Carman, W.Y. A Dictionary of Military Uniform. p. 72. ISBN 0-684-15130-8.
External links
Clothing generally not worn today, except in historical settings | ||
| Body-length |  | |
| Tops | ||
| Trousers | ||
| Skirts | ||
| Dresses | ||
| Outerwear |
| |
| Underwear | ||
| Headwear |
| |
| Footwear | ||
| Accessories | ||
