The magnificent array of ladies' fashions that characterized the century are on display in this remarkably complete decade-by-decade overview. Drawing almost exclusively on contemporary sources--fashion magazines, newspapers, rare period photographs, memoirs, Victorian novels, periodicals and other publications, as well as firsthand observation of actual garments--the author describes and explains the couture that evolved in response to changing social conditions, technological innovations and cultural developments. Over 1,100 line and tone drawings and photographs depict hundreds of outfits ranging from lovely morning dresses and starkly attractive riding outfits to elegant carriage costumes, opulent evening dresses and exquisite bridal gown. By C. Willett Cunnington. Paperback, 460 pages.