According to Vitruvius, which architectural order is associated with women?

The choice of the Ionic order as being associated with women stems from Vitruvius's writings in which he metaphorically connects the characteristics of each architectural order to gender qualities. The Ionic order is often described as more ornamental and graceful compared to the sturdier and more robust Doric order, which he correlates with masculinity. This design uses slender, fluted columns with scroll-like volutes at the capitals, embodying a sense of elegance and delicacy that Vitruvius attributes to feminine qualities.

In contrast, the Doric order is viewed as more austere and utilitarian, reflecting a more masculine essence, while the Corinthian order, which features elaborate floral decorations, evolves later and is often considered the culmination of decorative architectural elements. Neoclassical architecture does not fit the discussion of the classical orders as per Vitruvius's framework, as it revisits and adapts these earlier styles rather than originating from them. Thus, the association of the Ionic order with femininity is firmly rooted in its aesthetic attributes highlighted by Vitruvius.