Take a front-row seat at the catwalk and prepare to be dazzled by the most important and groundbreaking fashions of the last 4,000 years.

This extraordinary tour of fashion history includes more than 400 key pieces, from the ancient world to the present day. Discover the exquisite detail of 17th-century embroidery in detail. Find yourself blown away by the intricacies of a traditional kimono. Learn the Mexican origins of classic American cowboy gear. And marvel at galleries of the most important styles of shoes and accessories down the centuries.

Learn the difference between a tunic and a tabard, a leg o’ mutton sleeve and a Juliet sleeve, and a skater skirt and a dirndl. Find out which came first: the sari or the shalwar kameez. Trace the influences of one region’s style on another. Marvel at the extravagance of Ancient Egyptian attire. And be mightily glad you don’t need to squeeze yourself into a Victorian corset.

Organized chronologically, the book profiles all of the major milestones of fashion – through the ages and all over the globe. Detailed analysis and annotation from experts highlight key details, identifying all of the elements of each garment, and exploring design, technique, material, and structure. Lush photography and timeless illustrations bring each item to life on the page.

This book is a gallery collection for your home, a design sourcebook, and an inspiration for your next outfit.