In Review: Power & Style

7.2.13

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I was delighted when a copy of 'Power and Style: A World History of Politics and Dress' landed on my doorstep a few days ago.

The publication is the first book of its kind to cover the complete history of fashion and power, from the first civilisations to the modern day. Beginning with Christopher Columbus and ending with Queen Elizabeth II's Diamond Jubilee, this publication covers ceremonial dress, fur coats, tribal paint, feather headdresses and everything in between!

The book explains the symbols of importance of power through dress, with examples including gold, pearls and precious materials as well as ochre, feathers and shells worn by members of so-called 'naked' societies.

The volume also covers the vast speculation of regalia and the powerful figures who have worn such items throughout history. I was very happy to see JFK and President Obama included amongst the pages!

This has got to be one of the best fashion books of 2013, and is the perfect coffee table publication for anyone interested in how the worlds of fashion and power are so tightly intertwined.

Power and Style is written by Dominique Gaulme, a former journalist for Figaro Magazine and the founder and editor in chief of Le monde comme il va, and Francois Gaulme, an anthropologist and historian.

Power and Style can be purchased here. US readers- for more information on the volume click here.  UK readers, click here for more information!

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