ABSTRACT
Apparel history crops up in unexpected places, revealing the economical and psychological impact of wardrobe on all aspects of living, throughout history. From swaddling and coming of age to nuptials and grave goods, the story of garments discloses facets of human need and individuality that leap off the hanger. A survey of how people dress themselves and their families picks up details from unusual sources, including purple dye from shellfish, the smuggling of athletic shoes through border patrols, rue to mourn the beheading of Charles II, and jaguar pelts that honor combat bravery.
