The expanded and updated edition of John Peacock's collection of drawings ranges over eleven centuries of English historical costume. More than a thousand illustrations, based on surviving garments and contemporary paintings and photographs, demonstrate the astonishing changes in men's and women's clothing over the centuries - from the simple tunics and gowns of the eleventh century to the petticoat breeches and ostrich-plumed hats of Charles II's reign to the T-shirts and shorts of the present era. The evolution of particular garments can easily be traced, from their origins through their fashionable epochs to their eventual demise and resurgence.

Previous ed. under title: Costume 1066-1990s. 2nd rev. ed.

Preface -- The Costumes -- Chart of the Development of Costume -- Further Reading.