This is a site for those interested in Royal and Imperial Court Dress.

The emphasis is on the officially prescribed uniforms and dress worn by officials, military and civil officers, the ecclesiastical and judicial hierarchy, and the public, when at Court.

Most of the uniforms and costumes were, or in many cases are, also worn when attired in full dress, whether at Court, attending state occasions, or whenever full dress is worn.

Rules for Court or full dress uniforms and clothes have been determined at different times either by custom or regulation. Court uniforms can mark the rank or position of the wearer, as with civil uniforms, or be awarded as an honour in itself, as in Imperial China. Court dress is in many cases merely the highest fashion of the period, with or without extra decoration or embellishment.

A homepage will be developed in tandem with the discussion group. The emphasis of the site will be on British English and Scottish Official and Ceremonial Uniforms and Historical Costumes. Other major areas of interest will be the official state costumes worn at the Manchu Court, and in Imperial Russia.

You are welcome to contribute any comments that are related to the main topic. Ceremonial, regalia and honours inevitably overlap with Court dress.

The emphasis is on historical study and research. The group is not intended to be purely academic. Those interested in living history and re-enactment are welcome to participate.