Fashion History from the 18th to the 20th Century

By Reiko Koga, Akiko Fukai, Rie Nii, et al.

Book Overview

Clothes define people. A person's attire, whether it be a sari, kimono, or business suit, is an essential code to his or her culture, class, personality, even faith. Indeed, clothing has the power to define people and their generation. Recognizing this sartorial significance is the Kyoto Costume Institute, whose team of curators examine fashion through sociological, historical, and artistic perspectives. With one of the world's most extensive clothing collections, the KCI has amassed a wide range of historical garments, including underwear, shoes, and fashion accessories dating from the 18th century to the present day.

Showcasing the Institute's vast collection, Fashion History is a fascinating excursion through clothing trends from the 18th to the 20th century. With photographs of clothing displayed on custom-made mannequins and commentary from some of the sharpest minds in fashion studies, the book is a testimony to attire as "an essential manifestation of our very being" and to the Institute's passion for fashion as a complex and intricate art form.

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 3836557193
• ISBN13: 9783836557191
• Release Date: September 2015
• Publisher: Taschen
• Length: 648 Pages
• Weight: 2.50 lbs.
• Dimensions: 1.4" x 5.8" x 7.9"

Customer Reviews

A Couture Treasure Chest

A bit premature to review the entire book - rather a tome, at that... However, the photos are brilliant. The index and chapter orders are quite helpful! I've yet to get any further than the 16th century. I'm an art illustrator and use draping, folds, etc., in much of my work. This is an investment I will never regret!