Fashion is one of the defining features of human evolution and culture. It's fascinating development throughout different civilizations and periods of history is currently generating an impressive amount of interest, not only in the fashion world but also within the academic community and, as a result, among the general public as well. Spanning from the first civilizations to today's most recent trends, this book analyses the importance and meaning of this captivating area of human behavior with an in-depth approach to its subject that is illuminated by a rich, iconographic display of illustrations and photographs. The lavish visuals, which many other titles in this field lack, truly bring the topic to life.With this book, the reader will discover the beauty and mystery of the history of fashion, the roles it has played in society and the creativity and power of invention it has often brought out in man. AUTHOR: Stefania Sposito lives and works in Milan, where she teaches art history, costume history and textile technology. She is the author of critical essays and numerous articles published in art and fashion magazines such as Filoforme, Jacquard and Moodmagazine. She organizes seminars and conferences at the international level on fabric techniques and history as well as conducting research projects in these fields. Some of her designs have appeared in such magazines as Vogue Italia. Colour illustrations