Over 25 stunning and historically accurate patterns for retro swimwear, from 1880 to 1970. Features demure 1920s costumes with tunic and drawers, knitted patterns from the 1940s, 1960s halterneck bikinis in bold geometric prints, and much more. Includes fully annotated patterns and photographs of each garment, plus two projects with step-by-step instructions. Featuring over 25 swimming costumes, two-piece garments and bikinis from 1880 to 1970, these fabulous and historically accurate patterns chart the progression of swimwear over the last 130 years, including garments for women, men and children. The fully annotated patterns are accompanied by photographs and practical advice on any techniques or alterations necessary for making up the garments. The book also features two projects with step-by-step instructions. Fashion students and historians will find the period details and historical background of each garment an invaluable resource, while the patterns are perfect for any costume designer working for stage or screen.

From 1920s French knickers to 1950s pin-up brassieres, these fabulous vintage pieces chart the progression of lingerie over the last 120 years. The book covers a range of fascinating garments, including 1890s corsets, 1940s garter belts and basques, 1950s New Look girdles, brassieres, knickers and much more. The book includes 25 fully annotated working patterns alongside drawings, photographs and practical advice on any feature or alteration necessary for making up the garments. For any costume designer working on stage or screen, the historically accurate patterns are an essential for capturing the classic shapes of any period. Fashion students and historians will find the period details and historical background of each garment an invaluable resource. Whether you need to construct a historically accurate period garment or simply wish to channel your inner 1950s starlet, this is the book for you.

This fascinating collection showcases an astonishing range of period pieces, from the 1750 whale-boned corsets, through the invention of the sewing machine and mass-produced corsets of the 1850s to the makeshift corsets of World War I.