Title
The Corset: A Cultural History
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The corset is probably the most controversial garment in the history of fashion. Although regarded as an essential element of fashionable dress from the Renaissance into the twentieth century, the corset was also frequently condemned as an instrument of torture and the cause of ill health. Why did women continue to don steel and whalebone corsets for four hundred years? And why did they finally stop? This lavishly illustrated book offers fascinating and often surprising answers to these questions. Valerie Steele, one of the worlds most respected fashion historians, explores the cultural history of the corset, demolishing myths about this notorious garment and revealing new information and perspectives on its changing significance over the centuries.Whereas most historians have framed the history of the corset in terms of oppression vs. liberation and fashion vs. health and comfort, Steele contends that womens experiences of corsetry varied considerably and cannot be fully understood within these narrow frames. Drawing on extensive research in textual, visual, and materials sources, the author disproves the beliefs that the corset was dangerously unhealthy and was designed primarily for the oppression of women. Women persisted in wearing corsetsdespite powerful male authorities trying to dissuade thembecause corsetry had positive connotations of social status, selfdiscipline, youth, and beauty. In the twentieth century the garment itself fell out of fashion but, Steele points out, it has become internalized as women replace the boned corset with diet, exercise, and plastic surgery. The book concludes with insightful analyses of such recent developments as the reconception of the corset as a symbol of rebellion and female sexual empowerment, the revival of the corset in contemporary high fashion, and its transformation from an item of underwear to outerwear.
⚠️ WARNING (California Proposition 65):
This product may contain chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects, or other reproductive harm.
For more information, please visit www.P65Warnings.ca.gov.
- Q: How many pages does 'The Corset: A Cultural History' have? A: This book has two hundred eight pages. It provides an in-depth look at the historical significance of corsetry.
- Q: What is the binding type of this book? A: The binding type is paperback. This makes it lightweight and easy to handle for reading.
- Q: What are the dimensions of the book? A: The dimensions are nine point zero two inches in length, zero point seven five inches in width, and ten point seven five inches in height.
- Q: Who is the author of this book? A: The author is Valerie Steele. She is a renowned fashion historian with extensive expertise in the subject of corsetry.
- Q: What genre does 'The Corset: A Cultural History' belong to? A: This book belongs to the genre of cultural history. It explores the societal impacts of the corset over centuries.
- Q: Is this book suitable for academic purposes? A: Yes, it is suitable for academic purposes. Valerie Steele’s research is well-documented and provides valuable insights.
- Q: How should I care for this book? A: To care for this book, keep it in a dry, cool place away from direct sunlight. Avoid bending or folding the pages.
- Q: Can I return the book if I'm not satisfied? A: Yes, you can return the book if you are not satisfied. The return policy allows for no-quibble returns.
- Q: Is this book a good fit for fashion students? A: Yes, it is a great fit for fashion students. It offers in-depth analysis and historical context relevant to fashion studies.
- Q: What should I do if the book arrives damaged? A: If the book arrives damaged, you should contact customer support for assistance with returns or exchanges.
- Q: Does this book contain illustrations? A: Yes, the book contains lavish illustrations. These visuals enhance the understanding of the corset’s cultural significance.
- Q: Is there a specific reading level for this book? A: There is no specified reading level, but it is best suited for adults or older teens interested in fashion history.
- Q: What themes are explored in this book? A: The themes explored include societal standards of beauty, women's health, and the evolution of fashion over centuries.
- Q: How can I contact support for questions about the book? A: You can contact customer support through the seller's website for any inquiries related to your purchase.
- Q: What are the notable features of this book? A: Notable features include mint condition, same-day dispatch for orders before noon, and guaranteed packaging.