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1896 Rare 19th-Century Fashion Book - Fancy Dresses Described or What to Wear at Fancy Balls color illustrated.

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Original price $150 USD - Original price $150 USD
Original price
$150 USD
$150 USD - $150 USD
Current price $150 USD


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(Description)



Author: Ardern Holt. Miss Lilian Young, illustrator.
Title:  Fancy Dresses Described or What to Wear at Fancy Balls.
Publisher: London: Debenham & Freebody and Edward Arnold, no date (1896). 6th Edition.
Language: Text in English.
Size: 8" X 6".
Pages: xiii-312 pages + publisher's catalog.
Binding: Very good original green cloth with gilt lettering on the spine and front cover (hinges fine, overall slightly foxed, worn, and scuffed - as shown) under a protective removable mylar cover.
Content: Very good content (bright, tight, and clean, toning to endpapers - as shown, Publisher's presentation copy with inscription on the front endpaper: "With Messrs. Debenham & Freebody's compliments." - as shown).
Illustrations: Complete with 60 illustrations, including 20 in vibrant color and others in black and white, showcasing a variety of historical and thematic costumes, such as "Edward IV, Period Dress" and "Zingari."


The book: Remarkable guide to fancy dress costumes for balls and events, offers historical and whimsical outfit ideas for the discerning attendee. First published in the late 19th century, this edition has been revised and expanded to include additional characters and costumes, reflecting the evolving trends of the time. The preface highlights the collaboration between the artist and author to ensure accuracy and practicality for costume replication.

The author: Ardern Holt, a respected authority in Victorian costume design, wrote extensively on fashion and etiquette. Her work is considered an essential reference for enthusiasts of historical dress and costume.

The illustrator: Miss Lilian Young's detailed and imaginative illustrations bring the text to life. Her artwork captures the elegance and charm of period attire, making the book a visual delight and a useful guide for costume-makers.