Between about 1550 and 1600, well-dressed English gentlemen and ladies wore a Ruff.
This extended onto the continent somewhat - Henry III of France (1551-1589; King of France from 1574) brought ruffs into fashion by using one to hide a disfiguring scar on his neck.
Read more about The Ruff
What is this? This is The Garbindex - a guide to making garb for recreationists (ie how to sew clothes that will make you look genuinely medieval, when 'playing' with such groups as the SCA, doing LARP - or even making something really genuine for drama.)
Use these resources to find resources that will help you create clothing that looks great - and real!