This sumptuously illustrated book surveys the exquisite range of costume jewelry produced by haute couture fashion houses, a subject until now overlooked by historians and fashion cognoscenti alike. The term “costume jewelry” was coined in the twentieth century for the use of non-precious metals and jewels for human adornment. This book showcases the extraordinary diversity and exceptional craftsmanship of this jewelry in hundreds of beautifully reproduced pieces from such fashion houses as Chanel, Balenciaga, Dior, Yves Saint Laurent, Lanvin, Schiaparelli, and Givenchy. “A time capsule of creativity.” ~ Dallas Morning News

What does the American novel look like in the foundational period of the early American republic? This collection of essays sets out to present the current state of criticism in an area that is at once extremely familiar and just beginning to be studied.

This sumptuously illustrated book surveys the exquisite range of costume jewelry produced by haute couture fashion houses, a subject until now overlooked by historians and fashion cognoscenti alike. The term “costume jewelry” was coined in the twentieth century for the use of non-precious metals and jewels for human adornment. This book showcases the extraordinary diversity and exceptional craftsmanship of this jewelry in hundreds of beautifully reproduced pieces from such fashion houses as Chanel, Balenciaga, Dior, Yves Saint Laurent, Lanvin, Schiaparelli, and Givenchy. “A time capsule of creativity.” ~ Dallas Morning News

Published to accompany an exhibition at the Metropolitan Museum's Costume Institute, December 1995-March 1996. A lovely presentation of designs that exemplify the rise of haute couture--that is, fashion driven by the artistic expression of the designer rather than by the dictates of clients. The thoroughly captioned selections represent the history of haute couture from its beginings in mid-19th century Paris to the present-day creations of major designers. Tailoring and dressmaking techniques as well as the decoration produced by embroiderers, beaders, lace makers, feather workers, and other craftspeople are discussed in the explanatory text. No bibliography. Distributed by Abrams. Annotation copyright by Book News, Inc., Portland, OR

Co-written by antiques expert, Judith Miller and costume jewelry specialist, John Wainwright, DK Collector's Guides: Costume Jewelry traces the history of costume jewelry from ancient times to the present day. It also explains how social and economic developments, changing fashions, new materials, and manufacturing techniques, as well as the haute couture houses of the 1940s and '50s have influenced and inspired the industry. Over 1,500 collectible pieces are presented in full-color, in a catalog-style layout, with prices and sizes clearly displayed below each one. There are profiles of 20 major international designers and factories, including Joseff of Hollywood, Trifari, Miriam Haskell, and Christian Dior. In addition, pieces by 80 lesser-known names are displayed and priced, and there is a gallery of unsigned collectible pieces. Contextual notes explain the features that make the pieces desirable, and there are tips on what to look out for when buying. "Hot" collecting fields, such as Bakelite and Christmas Tree pins, are featured throughout. The book also includes a glossary of materials, a list of designer's and maker's marks, and a directory of specialized dealers. Book jacket.