1300–1400 in European fashion this period, the most dignified figures, like King Charles in the illustration, continue to wear long overgowns—although as the Royal Chamberlain, de Vaudetar was himself a person of very high rank. This abandonment of the gown to emphasise a tight top over the torso, with breeches or trousers below, was to become the distinctive feature of European men's fashion for centuries to come. Men had carried purses up to this time because tunics did not provide pockets. The funeral effigy and "achievements" of Edward, the Black Prince in Canterbury Cathedral, who died in 1376, show the military version of the
William Devereux (died 1376/7) father, Stephen Devereux, died. William’s elder brother, Walter Devereux, followed his father in death about 1360 without issue. Upon receiving his inheritance, William Devereaux made concessions and granted lands about 1354 to his cousin, Baron John Devereux and the heirs of his body for a term of 70 years. These included a quarter of the manor and the advowson of Bishoptown (Bishopstone); Whitchurch Maund manor; and the lands in Whitchurch Maund and Marsh Maund held from the Bishop of Hereford for knight service. Devereux acknowledged that he owed Sir Ralph Spigurnell 1000 marks in 1358. On 3 February 1359 Devereux