dowdy

the word 'dowdy' first appeared in english in the late 16th century, originally used as a noun to refer to an unattractive or unfashionably dressed woman. its exact origins are obscure, but it is thought to be related to the middle english term 'doude'. the semantic journey is one of pejoration, where a term for a simple person evolved to specifically denote a lack of style and elegance. by the early 17th century, it had solidified its modern adjectival sense, describing anything, especially clothing or appearance, that is drab, old-fashioned, and lacking in smartness.

the word is a simplex. its origin is uncertain, but it is likely from the middle english word 'doude', meaning a dull or unattractive person.