Fashion History - 20th Century

How women view and value their bodies has changed over time. These books examine the history of body image and how culture shapes ideas of women's beauty -- useful perspective in dealing with body image and self-esteem issues among girls and women today. There are other good books on body image and beauty culture today from a personal perspective; these books include the best historical analysis.

Coco Chanel's designs helped define the 1920s and the 1950s. A short biography of Chanel plus links to many Net resources for even more information and photographs.

Helena Rubinstein founded and ran a worldwide cosmetics empire.

The lingerie of stars, including a Madonna bustier, the bra Tony Curtis wore in Some Like It Hot, and much more. From Betsy Malloy, About's California for Visitors Guide.

From 1900 to 1930, fashion and politics came together as women and men debated the way women dressed and how that might affect women's behavior and women's role.

A red 1920s flapper-style dress is part of the Smithsonian's collection.

"Time 100" tribute honors this beauty entrepreneur with a biography and timeline.

On this companion website to a PBS film, you'll find a timeline, maps, info on people, events, and the film, and a teacher's guide. There's also a video (requires Flash) showing how American women's fashions have changed since the beginning of the pageant.

Claudia Kidwell, costume curator for the National Museum of American History, Washington, reflects on the style of inauguration dresses of the First Ladies, including the political and fashion messages they've communicated.

NY Times Magazine honors women and the millennium with a fashion show covering nearly 1000 years of women's clothing.