Incroyables

Definition of eccentric menswear of English inspiration in vogue during the French Directory (1795-1799). Jackets, with long tailcoats at the back, very tight and double-breasted, had sleeves with very high cuffs. The high-waisted trousers were buttoned under the knees and fastened by ribbons. A piece of fabric was wrapped around the neck several times with a bowtie pinned onto it. The outfit was completed by redingote decorated by enormous frogs, colored stockings, and high boots. It was the style of the young men of that period, who protested against the expressly shabby garments of the old revolutionary.