Pronunciation: [d͡ʒˈʌstəkˌɔːps] (IPA) 
The word "justaucorps" is a French term commonly used to describe a type of men's coat popular during the 18th century. Its spelling can be explained through the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) as /ʒystəkɔr/. The "j" is pronounced like the English "zh" sound, the "y" is pronounced like the letter "i," and the "c" is silent. The word has a unique spelling due to its French origins and its use in fashion history.
Justaucorps is a term derived from the French language, specifically from the words "juste" meaning "just" or "right" and "au corps" meaning "to the body." It refers to a type of long, fitted coat that was predominant in men's fashion during the 17th and 18th centuries. The justaucorps was an essential component of formal clothing worn by aristocrats and high-ranking individuals of that era.
These coats were typically made from luxurious fabrics such as velvet, silk, or brocade, emphasizing the wearer's social status and wealth. Justaucorps were characterized by their close-fitting style, tailored to the body with flaring skirts on the lower hem. They usually featured a row of decorative buttons down the front, securing the coat and creating a stylish decorative element.
The justaucorps had various purposes, serving as both outerwear and a symbol of fashion and elegance. It was often paired with matching breeches, waistcoats, and accessories like cravats and buckled shoes, forming a complete ensemble indicative of refined taste. Justaucorps were worn on various formal occasions, including the court, noble gatherings, and social events.
Throughout history, the justaucorps evolved, adapting to changing fashion trends and cultural influences. Its design varied across regions and periods, reflecting the intricate details and tailoring allowed by the fashion styles of the time. Despite its decline in popularity after the 18th century, the justaucorps remains an iconic representation of European aristocratic fashion and serves as a historical reference in the study of clothing and costume design.
The word "justaucorps" has its origins in French. It is composed of two words: "juste" meaning "just" or "righteous" and "au corps" meaning "to the body".
The term "justaucorps" first appeared in the late 16th century and referred to a fitted, knee-length coat worn by men in the French court. It was a central piece of men's fashion during the 17th and 18th centuries. The justaucorps was often highly adorned with elaborate embroidery and featured a close-fitting style that emphasized the wearer's physique.
Over time, the term "justaucorps" became more generic and was used to describe various types of coats and jackets. Today, it is still used in the world of historical costume to refer to the specific type of coat worn during the Baroque and Rococo periods.
