I hope the board will allow me some wild speculation here, which is more designed to spark off other people's thoughts rather than put forward a definite theory.

The question: why did men's clothing become markedly more austere and even drab during JA's lifetime? In the 1770s and 1780s, men -- the ones who could afford it, at least -- were dressed like peacocks. The macaronis took it to extravagant lengths, but even sober lawyers and doctors would wear clothes that would seem very vivid to a later generation.

By the end of her lifetime, however, the standard fashionable dress for men was very restrained, with cut being more important than colour. Only officers in their regimentals could get away with anything bright.

What happened? I have two vague speculations. The first is that the French Revolution warned aristocrats world wide that it might not be a good idea to parade your wealth overmuch. The second is that it was the restraining influence of Beau Brummell, who considered that a gentleman should not attract attention by his clothing.

Any other thoughts?