Question

In Medieval France, the clothing a person could purchase per year was regulated by their income and social rank.
A. Income
B. Social rank
C. Both A and B
D. None of the above

Answer 1

Hint: From about $1294$ till the time of the French Revolution in $1789$, the people of France were forced to rigidly follow what was known as ‘sumptuary laws.’

Complete answer:
In medieval Europe, dress codes were sometimes forced upon members of dissimilar layers of society through actual laws which were read out in some detail. The Sumptuary laws attempted to control the behavior of those considered lower in society, stopping them from wearing certain clothes, consuming certain foods and beverages (usually this referred to alcohol), and hunting games in certain areas. In medieval France, the articles of clothing a person could buy per year was regulated, not only by income but also by social rank. The raw material to be used for clothing was also legally imposed. Only royal people could wear expensive items like ermine and fur, or silk, velvet, and brocade. Other classes were excluded from clothing themselves with materials that were related to the aristocracy.
In Medieval France, the clothing a person could buy per year was regulated by their income and social rank. The French Revolution ended these distinctions. The people that belong to the Jacobin clubs even called themselves the ‘sans-culottes’ to differentiate themselves from the aristocracy who wore the fashionable ‘knee breeches’. Sans culottes closely meant those ‘without knee-breeches’. From now on, both men and women started wearing clothing that was loose and comfortable.
So, the correct answer is Option C.

Note: After the French Revolution the colors of France – blue, white, and red – became popular as they were a sign of the patriotic citizen. Other political signs also related to dress: the red cap of liberty, long trousers, and the revolutionary cockade pinned onto a hat. The simplicity of clothing was meant to show the idea of equality.