World Clothing and Fashion: An Encyclopedia of History, Culture, and Social Influence

Gr 6 Up—This set not only examines clothing and fashion as a way to cover, or not cover, the body, but also how dress is a way to trace the history of groups through their costuming habits. Of great use to students and amateur researchers is the topic finder that organizes the entries according to subjects such as accessories and adornments; art and media; biographies; clothing types (functions, purposes, groups); materials; historical periods and styles around the world, with a focus on the United States and England; holiday and event costumes; the creation and care of clothing; merchandising and commerce; local styles, again with a strong emphasis on the United States and England; techniques and trades/professions; and trends and movements. The 313 major entries offer basic overviews of people, groups, materials, and meanings of clothing throughout time, with several photographs included as well. Each entry is organized with subheadings, and includes cross references and suggestions for further reading. This work will be useful to students creating reports on cultures, geographies, costuming for theater, advertising, biographies of subjects such as Amelia Bloomer and Vera Wang, and manufacturing of clothing.—Sara Marcus, Queensborough Community College Library, Bayside, NY