ABSTRACT
The author examines that dress was a significant tool in the negotiations between Prince Charles and the Spanish monarchy in 1623 and that temporarily, at least, Charles's experience in Spain impacted on his taste. He explores that Prince Charles's adventure in Spain had wide cultural and political ramifications which have attracted the attention of historians of different persuasions who work with and from diverse forms of primary evidence, both texts and artefacts. The author describes that Charles arrived in Spain with certain preconceived ideas about the country, its vestimentary habits and peculiarities. He explores that Charles's visit stimulated the production of a handful of engravings and paintings which testify to his sartorial and aesthetic experience in and immediately after Spain, and hence to his political and dynastic mission. The author investigates his actual wardrobe, its use and reception, and speculates on the extent to which paintings record the impact of his Spanish experience on his personal appearance.
