19th–Century Fashion in Detail

Part of the V&A’s bestselling ‘Fashion in Detail’ series, this revised edition showcases the opulence and variety of 19th-century fashion, shown in exquisite colour photography and with line drawings of the complete garments

From Liberty & Co. dresses to Indian-inspired printed cottons, brightly coloured corsets, feathered capes and dramatic sleeves and petticoats, 19th-Century Fashion in Detail reveals the elaborate trimmings, refined embroidery, voluptuous drapery, strict corseting and impeccable tailoring that make up some of the most beautiful garments in the V&A’s 19th-century fashion collection, giving a unique opportunity to examine historical clothing that is often too fragile to be on display.

This substantially revised and updated book explores the opulence and diversity of clothing from the 19th century, with a new, comprehensive introduction illuminating the history of fashion in the period, followed by chapters dedicated to specific techniques and elements – from ‘Tailoring’ to ‘Printed Textiles’, ‘Buttons and Fastenings’, ‘Technical Innovations’ and ‘Accessories’.

Each garment is accompanied by an authoritative text, exquisite photography and specially commissioned line drawings, making this one of the most complete and beautiful books dedicated solely to the subject of 19th-century fashion.

Lucy Johnston is an expert in historical dress. She was previously Curator of Fashion 1800–1914 at the V&A, and her other publications include Shoes: A Brief History, which she co-authored with Linda Woolley. Helen Persson was formerly Curator of Chinese Textiles and Dress in the V&A’s Asia Department, and curated Shoes: Pleasure and Pain at the Museum in 2015. Marion Kite was Head of the Furniture, Textiles & Fashion Conservation Section at the V&A until 2014.