English Costume

This comprehensive survey follows English civilian dress from the Norman Conquest through the age of Beau Brummell, charting every shift in style, silhouette, and ornamentation. Each chapter pairs concise commentary with vivid colour plates that isolate the defining features of a reign—whether it’s the lofty frock coat of George IV or the whiskered elegance of early‑nineteenth‑century gentlemen. Listeners will hear how a single garment evolves, influencing the next generation of fashion in a clear, chronological narrative.

The author treats clothing as a social mirror, showing how fabrics, cuts, and accessories reveal the habits, trades, and aspirations of ordinary people as well as the elite. By focusing on civil costume rather than military or ecclesiastical dress, the work strips away grand historical events to highlight the everyday choices that shape culture. Ideal for anyone curious about the visual language of history, the audio rendition invites you to picture each era through its wardrobes, making the past feel tangible and relatable.