The expanded and updated edition of John Peacock's collection of drawings ranges over eleven centuries of English historical costume. More than a thousand illustrations, based on surviving garments and contemporary paintings and photographs, demonstrate the astonishing changes in men's and women's clothing over the centuries - from the simple tunics and gowns of the eleventh century to the petticoat breeches and ostrich-plumed hats of Charles II's reign to the T-shirts and shorts of the present era. The evolution of particular garments can easily be traced, from their origins through their fashionable epochs to their eventual demise and resurgence. The book is divided into the reigns of the British monarchs, and the costumes have been chosen to reflect analogous developments in the United States and Europe. Clear and detailed drawings, plus notes that pinpoint specific features such as fabric, decoration, accessories and cut, make each costume immediately comprehensible. With additional pages covering the past decade and a new chart showing the main changes in fashion through the centuries, this is an essential reference for students of theatrical design and fashion, amateur drama groups and anyone interested in the history of costume.