18th-Century Fashion in Detail

A rare, close-up look at the exquisite, labour-intensive details seen in 18th-century clothing

This beautifully illustrated book reveals the sharp pleats, high collars, gleaming pastes, colourful beads, elaborate buttons and intricate lacework that make up some of the garments in the Victoria and Albert Museum’s extensive fashion collection. With an expertly written text by one of the museum’s fashion curators and exquisite colour photography of garment details, complemented by line drawings and photographs, the reader has the unique opportunity to examine up close historical clothing that is often too fragile to be on display. It is an inspirational resource for students, collectors, designers and anyone who is fascinated by fashion and costume.

This new edition features an updated design, fresh content and new research, and an introduction that focuses on the makers and processes involved in producing 18th-century fashion.

Contents List:

1. Pleats, Gathers and Looped Drapery • 2. Collars, Cuffs and Pockets • 3. Stitching and Quilting • 4. Lace and Whitework • 5. Embroidery • 6. Pastes, Foils and Beads • 7. Chintz and Painting • 8. Pinking and Punching • 9. Fringes, Ribbons, Tassels and Buttons • 10. Fur, Feathers and Straw

About the Author:

Susan North is Curator of Fashion, 1550–1800, at the Victoria and Albert Museum. She co-curated ‘Style and Splendour: Queen Maud of Norway’s Wardrobe’ in 2005 and has published several books for the V&A.

List of Contributors:

Henrietta Clare, Richard Davis, Leonie Davis, Deborah Mallinson