The Dictionary of Fashion History

The Dictionary of Fashion History serves as a comprehensive reference work documenting clothing and accessories from ancient times through the present day. Each entry provides detailed definitions and historical context for fashion terminology, garments, and style elements. This updated edition builds on the foundation of C.W. Cunnington and Phillis Cunnington's 1960 handbook, incorporating new research and expanding the scope to include contemporary fashion. The alphabetical entries range from basic clothing items to specific design details and manufacturing techniques. The text includes over 60 illustrations plus extensive cross-referencing between related terms and concepts. Period-specific terminology is clearly dated and contextualized, making the dictionary valuable for costume historians, fashion students, and theater designers. This dictionary represents a bridge between academic fashion scholarship and practical reference needs, highlighting the evolution of dress across cultures and time periods. The work reinforces fashion's role as both a reflection of social change and a form of material culture worthy of serious study.

Most readers value this book as a reference work for identifying historical fashion terminology. Fashion students, costume designers, and museum professionals frequently consult it for accurate period descriptions. Readers appreciate: - Clear definitions of garments and accessories - Chronological organization showing how terms evolved - Inclusion of both men's and women's fashion items - Black and white illustrations that aid understanding Common criticisms: - Limited illustrations compared to text content - Some entries lack depth/detail - Print size can be difficult to read - High price point for size Ratings: Goodreads: 4.26/5 (23 ratings) Amazon: 4.4/5 (31 ratings) "Perfect for quick lookups during research," notes one museum curator on Amazon. A costume design student mentions "would benefit from more visual examples." Multiple reviewers call it more practical than comprehensive, with one noting it serves better as a companion to other fashion history texts rather than a standalone resource.

The Fashion Book by Phaidon Editors A comprehensive A-Z guide covering fashion designers, photographers, models, and brands from the 1860s to present day.

Fashion: The Definitive History of Costume and Style by DK Publishing A chronological examination of fashion from prehistoric times through modern era with detailed illustrations and period documentation.

20,000 Years of Fashion by Francois Boucher A historical documentation of clothing and personal adornment from ancient civilizations through the mid-20th century with technical details and cultural context.

Survey of Historic Costume by Phyllis G. Tortora, Keith Eubank A systematic study of Western dress from ancient Egypt through the early 21st century with focus on social-cultural connections and technical developments.

The Complete Costume History by Auguste Racinet A detailed compilation of costume history from antiquity to the end of the 19th century with original colored engravings and cultural annotations.

🎯 The Dictionary of Fashion History evolved from A Dictionary of English Costume, first published in 1960, and represents over 50 years of fashion terminology research 👗 Author Valerie Cumming served as Deputy Director of the Museum of London and has been a consultant for major costume collections worldwide 📚 The dictionary includes fashion terms dating back to 55 BCE, covering everything from Ancient Roman dress to contemporary streetwear 🧵 Many fashion terms in the book originated from military clothing, such as "cardigan" (named after the 7th Earl of Cardigan) and "raglan" sleeves (named after Lord Raglan) 🏛️ The book is considered a standard reference work in major costume collections and museums, including the Victoria and Albert Museum in London