Price: $50.00 - $19.19
(as of Jul 09, 2025 18:11:22 UTC – Details)
Review of “Fashion, New Edition: The Definitive Visual Guide (DK Definitive Cultural Histories)”
“Fashion, New Edition: The Definitive Visual Guide” is an extensively revised and updated volume that offers a comprehensive journey through the history of clothing and style. Published by DK as part of their Definitive Cultural Histories series, this book aims to be an indispensable reference for anyone interested in fashion, from students to enthusiasts.
Content and Scope
The book provides a detailed exploration of fashion through the ages, charting its evolution from Ancient Egypt and the era of Marie Antoinette to contemporary designers like Alexander McQueen and Chanel. It showcases how each generation reinvents fashion, illustrating the cyclical nature of trends and their cultural influences.
It covers significant fashion periods with vivid detail, presented in extensive catalog spreads. Readers will find specially photographed “virtual tours” of classic pieces—ranging from a crinoline to a Givenchy gown—highlighting the intricate details that define these masterpieces. The book also features profiles of trailblazing designers, explaining their key styles and works, and demonstrating their lasting impact on what we wear today.
Beautiful double-page images sourced from fashion archives illustrate how people embraced fashion across different eras and cultural contexts. The narrative explains how Western fashion has been shaped by global design influences, celebrating everything from traditional costumes to haute couture.
Key Features and Updates
The new edition includes several important updates, reflecting the current landscape of the fashion industry:
-
Social Media’s Role: It examines the increased influence of social media on fashion trends and consumption.
-
Fast Fashion: Discusses the phenomenon of fast fashion and its implications.
-
Sustainable Fashion: Explores the growing importance and trends in sustainable fashion practices.
-
Diversity and Beauty Ideals: Addresses the drive for improved diversity and evolving beauty ideals within the industry.
The book is enriched with a dazzling combination of original fashion plates, archive images, and commissioned photography, providing a rich visual experience. An illustrated glossary of technical terms and a comprehensive index are included, making it an invaluable reference tool for students and fashion aficionados.
Visual Presentation and Readability
As a “Definitive Visual Guide,” the book lives up to its title with its stunning visual presentation. It functions well as a fashion coffee table book due to its lavish illustrations and engaging layout. The combination of historical imagery and specially commissioned photography allows readers to visually grasp the evolution of styles and design elements.
The clear and concise text complements the visuals, guiding the reader through centuries of fashion history without being overly academic.
Conclusion
“Fashion, New Edition: The Definitive Visual Guide” is an authoritative and visually captivating resource for anyone looking to understand the rich history and dynamic evolution of fashion. Its updated content, comprehensive scope, and beautiful illustrations make it an essential addition to the library of fashion students, industry professionals, or anyone with a passion for style. It not only chronicles what people wore but also places fashion within its broader cultural context, making it a fascinating read and a valuable reference.
Shop new releases
Shop cookbooks
Shop history books
Shop crafts and hobbies
Shop gardening books
Shop Travel Inspiration
Shop popular culture books
Shop coffee table books
