Underwear: A Cultural History

Author: Valerie Steele
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2004-01-01
Features: Corsets are perhaps one of the most controversial items in the history of Western fashion. From the Renaissance to the 20th century, they were regarded by many women as stylish undergarments, but at the same time, they were criticized and condemned by some as instruments of pain for women and the culprit behind health issues. Why did women wear steel or bone corsets? Why has their charm endured for four hundred years? Why did women ultimately give them up? After over two decades of dedicated research, Valerie Steele has written this book, revealing the answers to these questions—some striking, some shocking. The book is accompanied by numerous illustrations, making it highly visually appealing; its rich language further enhances its readability. The translator has rendered this work and introduced it to readers with the aim of helping them understand Western fashion culture, broaden their horizons, gain knowledge, and pursue a high-quality cultural life.