Although it is contemporary with the French Flamboyant period, the Perpendicular is an English reaction to the over-ornamentation of the Decorated period (c.1315-c.1380).
The windows are usually large and have mullions running straight up, and perpendicular to their tops, with horizontal divisions.
Vaulting became even more elaborate with the additon of liernes (cross-ribs) and fan-vaulting.
The style first manifests itself in Gloucester Cathedral where the Norman choir and transepts were refaced between 1330 and 1374 with a Perpendicular overlay. The Norman nave of Winchester cathedral was rebuilt in the Perpendicular style by William of Wykeham. The style became so popular that it was seen in additions and rebuildings throughout England.
Perpendicular towers, such as those of Wells cathedral and Magdalen College, Oxford, became common. Many churches in East Anglia and Somerset wre built in this style.
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