Coif



A  is a close fitting  worn by both men and women that covers the top, back, and sides of the head.

History


Coifs date from the 10th century, but fell out of popularity with men in the 14th century. Coifs were worn by all classes in and  from the  to the early 17th century (and later as an old-fashioned cap for countrywomen and young children).

(later in Scotland) and earlier coifs are usually made of unadorned white linen and tied under the chin. In the and early, coifs were frequently decorated with  and lace edging. Coifs were worn under and hats of all sorts, and alone as indoor headcoverings.

Coifs were also worn by a now-defunct senior grade of English lawyer, the even after they became judges. A law school honor society is called the.

The traditional of  included a coif as a headpiece, along with the white cotton cap secured by a, to which the  would be attached, along with a white  or  of  linen or cotton to cover the cheeks, neck and chest.

A mail coif was a type of armour, made of, which covered the head (face excluded), neck and shoulders.

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