HISTORY OF 20TH CENTURY FASHION

Fashion in this century has ceased to be the domain of the wealthy. This book looks behind the scenes for a deeper understanding of the social, economic and technical changes which have caused this revolution in our attitude to dress. The author tells the story of fashion shocks: two world wars, the impact of new fibres and manufacturing techniques, the influence of radical new designers, and a succession of post-war youth explosions culminating in the punk and new wave looks of the last decade. The narrative is based on research into the history of couture houses, retailers and manufacturers.