Instead of using the most common layout for fashion history books, chronological, author Nicky Albrechtsen summarizes each decade in just the first third of the book and uses the rest of the ample space to cover specifics like the history and styles of gloves, or hats, or bridal gowns, polka dots, knitwear, aprons, and much more! When was the last time you picked up a fashion or vintage book that covered aprons?! I loved the idea of picking a motif, like florals, and showing/explaining how each decade interpreted the style. When the book arrived, and even after flipping through it quickly, I thought I would be able to read the entirety of its text before writing up this mini review for you all, but the text was detailed enough that such an undertaking wasn't actually possible! I have read through just under half of it now and look forward to returning to the specific sections in the future to learn more about gloves or shoes or what have you.
I think any vintage lover would really enjoy this book, and it would make a great textbook of sorts to those interested in starting to collect or sell vintage. Learning the difference between a 1950's dress and a 1980's revival of a very similar style can come down to details well described in this book. Which reminds me, this book covers all of 20th century vintage fashion, so have a good laugh looking at some of the crazier 1970's and 1980's styles!
Have any of you picked up Vintage Fashion Complete? What did you think? I think it is a worthy addition to my library, and I have definitely been inspired to add a few things to my sewing and vintage shopping lists!
As I said before, I have this book and it's one of my most loved! It is great to see something specific, like aprons or gloves, in more depth. I forgot to add in my previous comment, I attended a talk by the author at Bath fashion week a few years ago. I think I blogged about but can't find the post! Anyway, many more happy reading hours ahead for you await x
ReplyDeleteOh that must have been such fun! I wish there were more events like that near me, I need to get myself over there across the pond ;)
DeleteThis sounds like an amazing book, and I will definitely be looking for it at my library soon! I feel like it can be quite hard to find books that really go into detail about different eras in fashion, so something like this, which really dives deep, sounds like a wonderful find. Thank you for the recommendation!
ReplyDeleteI love it when a fashion book like this is more detailed than I expected, such a pleasant surprise!
DeleteThis sounds like one to add to my ever growing reading list. I think all the detail will make it a useful reference book.
ReplyDeleteI can't wait to open it up to a new section and escape into fashion history for a bit once more :)
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