Fans--they are mysterious and magical, and have been elevated to an art form by the great artists and decorators. They can be viewed as a tangible extension of femininity, style, and elegance. This book tells the fascinating tale of the fan as both a charming fashion accessory and a sophisticated mirror reflecting the changes in fashion and culture over time. Covering medieval times to the twentieth century, individual chapters trace the history of fans and their relationship to the major fashion trends of each era. Over 255 images, including dramatic original photos as well as historical illustrations, showcase fans made of paper, silk, lace, wood, celluloid, feathers, and more. Different shapes and styles of fans are featured, including fixed, pleated, and brise fans, souvenir fans, even several restored fans shown in "before and after" photos. An outstanding resource for fashion historians, students, designers, collectors, and aficionados, this unique study of the fan and its relationship to fashion will be of great interest to anyone who appreciates beautiful clothing and beautiful accessories.

The most ingenious and ephemeral of textiles, lace ispresented as the poetry of fashion. Here is a fascinating glimpse into this extraordinary art form and its role in our culture presented with over 225 pictures, including dramatic original photographs as well as historical illustrations, to portray various types of lace and lace garments from different periods. This is a delightful journey through the history of a celebrated ornament of fashion. An outstanding resource for fashion historians, designers, collectors, students, and aficionados, this unique study will be cherished by all who appreciate beautiful clothing and fabrics.