English Costume

A chronological study of civilian dress in England from the Norman Conquest to the early nineteenth century that follows changes in cut, trim, and accessory across successive reigns. The author concentrates on everyday and fashionable garments rather than military or ecclesiastical uniforms, pairing clear descriptions with painted plates and emblematic details to show how one garment influenced its successor and how clothing marked social identity and historical moments. Chapters present reign-by-reign wardrobes, visual emblems and anecdotes to help readers visualize dates and connect costume to cultural context, from tailoring techniques to the social meanings of particular styles.