Extensively illustrated and international in scope, this is an essential sourcebook for designers, students, collectors and enthusiasts.

It provides in more than 1,200 entries detailed information on the life and work of every important fashion designer from 1840 to the present day, including not only couturiers but also shoe, hat and knitwear specialists, costume designers, jewelers and hairdressers.

It covers the fashion media, photographers and illustrators, influential art movements, fashion terms, garment and accessory styles, technical processes and every kind of fabric, as well as personalities who have influenced fashion or promoted a style.