Here, in more than one thousand full-colour illustrations, is the history of Western costume, from ancient Egypt to Paris fashion. John Peacock's meticulous drawings are organized in chronological sections and accompanied by detailed descriptions of each figure, including the individual items of costume shown and the many types of fabric, cut, pattern and colour that have been used over the centuries. An illustrated glossary gives additional information on technical terms.

The Chronicle of Western Costume is the unrivalled reference work on its subject. No student or designer in the performing arts, costume and fashion enthusiast, collector or social historian will want to be without it.