The first of four volumes of Patterns of Fashions written and illustrated by Janet Arnold that together form an indispensable core collection for any costume designer, for theatre film or reenactments.Patterns of Fashion 1 focuses on Englishwomen's dresses and their construction form 1660 up to 1860--when the sewing machine came into general use. Drawings taken from original garment specimens in collections throughout England are supplemented with details showing their construction and laid out on grid paper along with construction comments and fabric details. From wrapping gowns, riding habits, pelisses, and chemises to sack dresses, morning dresses, and wedding dresses Janet Arnold lays out patterns for costume construction. Contains 180 black and white illustrations. 28 patterns.