The date is November 1482. Edward has come to his tailor in Westminster to get measured for a new outfit. Strangely, he's having trouble fitting into his other clothes.

Edward loved his clothes. It's such a pity that by the end of his life, he had put on a LOT of weight. It was the picture below (number 4) that started the craze for the black velvet cap. Mr Caxton, the printer, did indeed exist around the corner in Westminster. The descriptions of all the outfits are actual trends from the period.

The reference to Malmsey wine is a nod to his Brother's death - he was drowned in it on Edward's orders. Buttons really were the latest thing for clothes instead of ribbons, laces or bows. Eleanor Talbot was his first secret marriage and the rules according to canon law were correct at the time. He also had a thing with his cousin Henry Beaufort! His second wife was indeed accused of witchcraft and they did have ten children together. He was apparently very handsome.

The story about the widow in Suffolk is true. He really did use emetics so that he could eat more.

If you want to find out more about Edward, check out the sources and places below:

The Private Life of Edward IV - John Ashdown-Hill

Penguin Monarchs Series: Edward IV - A.J Pollard

The English Monarchs Series: Edward IV - Charles Ross

Edward IV: Glorious Son of York - Jeffrey James

Edward IV and Elizabeth Woodville: A True Romance - Amy Licence