Costume: 1066 to the Present

More than a thousand illustrations, based on surviving garments and contemporary paintings and photographs, demonstrate the astonishing changes in men’s and women’s clothing over the centuries—from the simple tunics and gowns of the eleventh century to the petticoat breeches and ostrich-plumed hats of Charles II’s reign to the T-shirts and shorts of today.

Clear and detailed drawings, plus notes that pinpoint specific features such as fabric, decoration, accessories and cut, make each costume immediately comprehensible.

Completely up to date, and with a new chart showing the main changes in fashion through the centuries, this is an essential reference for students of theatrical design and fashion, drama groups and anyone interested in the history of costume.

John Peacock was senior costume designer for BBC Television. His many books include Shoes, 20th Century Fashion, Fashion Accessories, and 20th Century Jewelry.

A new edition of the classic guide to English costume design and history—an essential reference book for students of design and fashion, amateur and professional drama groups, and anyone interested in the history of costume.

Here is an expanded and updated edition of John Peacock's unrivaled collection of drawings ranging over ten centuries of English historical costume. More than a thousand illustrations, based on surviving garments and contemporary paintings and photographs, demonstrate the astonishing changes in men's and women's clothing over the centuries—from the simple tunics and gowns of the eleventh century to the petticoat breeches and ostrich-plumed hats of Charles II's reign to the casual T-shirts and shorts of our day.

The book is divided into the reigns of the British monarchs, and the costumes have been chosen to reflect analogous developments in the United States and Europe. Clear and detailed drawings, plus notes that pinpoint specific features such as fabric, decoration, accessories, and cut, make each costume immediately comprehensible. This new edition includes additional pages of illustrations covering clothing design from 1994 to the present day. 1000+ illustrations in two colors.