
This book is a treasure! An incomparable compendium of fashions throughout the centuries, it is witty, wise, and wonderful! Every page is chock full of delicious details on how humans have been dressing since some smart fellow first threw a stinky bearskin over his shoulders. Fascinating info as well on early cosmetics, perfumes, jewelry, towering hairstyles, hats, tartans, armor, footwear, religious influences, fashions of famous courtesans, and soooo much more. The author's take is at once smart and droll, and she's done an impressive job with her scholarship. But her true gift is that she's made this book so very entertaining! I'd have given it 5 stars but there are times in the book, though rare, where the type is a bit difficult to read due to the illustrations. Overall the book is very clear, however, a very highly recommended.