Traditional Costume

This illustrated study, which is part of the "Costumes and clothes" series, examines the different regional and traditional costumes worn throughout the world. The author discusses the development of the costumes showing how they were originally made from materials which could be obtained locally and adapted to create clothes suitable for each particular region taking into account the climatic, cultural and historical influences. Each area expressed its individual style in its own preferred colours and decoration. The author looks at the positive value of traditional dress and how it became an expression of the cultural individuality of a particular region or country as the concept of identity developed. The kilt has for instance, has become synonomous with Scotsmen and costumes worn by matadors and flamenco dancers are identified as Spanish. German lederhosen, Dutch clogs, and Indian saris are examples of traditional costumes recognized worldwide. The text is complemented by an index, a further reading list and a glo ssary of difficult and unusual terms.