Here, in more than 1250 full-colour illustrations, is the most comprehensive and detailed history and sourcbooks of fashion in the modern era ever published.

From the styles of the early 1900s to those of the 21st century, John Peacock charts the development of women’s fashion in all its aspects: couture wear, underwear, leisure wear, day wear, evening wear, bridal wear and accessories.

Fashion’s greatest international designers and designs are all found here: from Worth, Chanel, Balenciaga, Dior, Courrèges and Mary Quant to recent designs from the collections of Calvin Klein, Dolce & Gabbana, Gucci, Vivienne Westwood and others.

Many predate colour photography and have never before been shown in their original colours. Arranged by decade, the pictures are accompanied by complete descriptions of each garment and accessory, including the fabric, colour, cut and pattern. Every detail – collars, cuffs, pockets, buttons and trimmings – is noted.

In this fully revised edition of Peacock’s standard book, 155 new drawings have been added, together with detailed descriptions. The updated reference section includes a time chart summarizing the development of fashion and dress-shapes, biographies of individual couturiers and designers, and a concise bibliography.