Book Review: Fashion

By Sandy Amazeen Dec 4, 2010, 1:29 GMT

Informative chapters that introduce each era coupled with extensive portraits of the groundbreaking fashion icons and countless expressive photographs work together to form a comprehensive portrayal of the rapid development that took fashion from the liberation of women from the corset all the way to the creations of modern designers. ...more

Seeling presents readers with stunning visual feast of fashion spanning one hundred fifty years beginning around 1860 when Paris based, English designer Charles Frederick Worth had the brilliant idea of placing signature labels into every garment he designed thus revolutionizing the industry. This comprehensive volume documents fashions' many phases beginning with haute couture through emancipation and depression to the present day and beyond. Naturally the best known designers such as Coco Chanel, Christian Dior, Yves Saint Laurent, Donna Daran and others are featured with short though complete biographies along with many talented, lesser known artists. Masters of innovation such as Issey Miyake, Vivienne Westwood and the duo of Dolce & Gabbana are featured along with many other visionaries. 

Lushly illustrated with thousands of full color drawings and photos, this collection is sure to inspire a new generation of fashion designers. From provocative gowns displaying plenty of bare skin and nipple to more sedate, utilitarian garments and even a look at what the future might hold in terms of design and marketing, this is more then a mere coffee table book, this is certain to become a treasured reference guide, a couture’s bible.