Just a simple one-off question here, but did men in the 1700s wear habits?

by QuotableConservative

Just a quick question here, I was doing some research and came across this page:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Samuel_Doak

And noticed him wearing, what I assume is, a habit. Was it called something different for men or ministers? I feel like I haven't really seen it that much, or even really read that much about it and was wondering if anyone could share a little information.

Thanks so much in advance! Also, apologies in advance if this is the wrong place.

colevintage

Everything he's wearing is very normal (but very conservative) for 1818 when the portrait was painted except for the hood. What we term a "habit" refers to an entire ensemble (hence the term riding habit meaning riding dress or ensemble). You might have better luck specifically researching the hood as a single garment (possibly a wimple?).