Auguste Racinet ― The Complete Costume History

Originally published in France between 1876 and 1888,Auguste Racinet’s Le Costume historique was the most wide-ranging and incisive study of clothing ever attempted. Covering the world history of costume, dress, and style from antiquity through to the end of the 19th century, the six volume work remainscompletely unique in its scope and detail.

TASCHEN’s complete reprint presents Racinet’s exquisitely precise and colored illustrations, as well as his delightful descriptions and often witty comments. Spanning everything from ancient Etruscan attire to French women’s couture, material is arranged according to Racinet’s orginal organization by culture and subject. Asexpansive in its reach as it is passionate in its research and attention to detail,The Complete Costume History is an invaluable reference for students, designers, artists, illustrators, and historians; and a rich source of inspiration for anyone with an interest in clothing and style.

Text in English, French, and German