Here is this second edition of Joan Nunn's detailed survey of costume in the Western world over the past eight centuries. She not only gives the reader a vivid visual impression of the clothes themselves, but also outlines the historical and social background and the changes in manufacturing techniques and fashionable life that have influenced the way costume has developed and the manner in which it has been worn. The book is illustrated throughout...

Describes the clothing worn by people in the eighteenth century in America.

Describes how clothes were made in nineteenth century North America and the fashions that were popular during this time.

Describes how clothing was a very important aspect of medieval life and was a way to display wealth and class.

Photographs and text document the history and meaning of clothing, from loincloths to modern children's clothes.

Showcases the key designers and style icons of each decade in the twentieth century, including Christian Dior, Twiggy, Vivienne Westwood, and Lauren Bacall.