English Costume of the Early Middle Ages

This volume deals with four centuries of costumes and fashions, taking us from Anglo-Saox tunics and gowns to the clothing of 1300. The drawings detail the fundamental differences and similarities, both in idea and style, that persisted throughtout the period. Primary sources are used to show the development of the garments and how they were made. There are specific illustrations for hair, shoes and hats as well as the various layers of men's and women's clothing, each subdivided by periods within the appropriate century. The drawings are paired or grouped in economic, social or cultural categories to assist in visualizing the relationship of clothing and people for historical and theatrical reference. General diagrams of certain garments are shown so a pattern could be developed for making the garment as well as for a better understanding of the construction of the garment. The style of the drawings is related sympathetically to the primary manuscript and/or other contemporary sources upon which they are based; but the garments are carefully shown in a clear style that allows the reader to understand how convincingly wearable each piece of clothing could have been. The reader will find this a concise and lively source with enduring value for historical costume and fashion reference as well as an ideal place to find helpful suggestions, ideas and background for costume design.