This fully illustrated book accompanies one of the most comprehensive exhibitions dedicated solely to three centuries of men's fashion. The fashionable male may be making a comeback, but early fashion trends centered around what men--not women--were wearing. This intriguing book traces the history of men's fashion since the 18th century, when young Englishmen imitated foreign dress and manners after touring the European continent. This
phenomenon is only one of many explored in sections titled
"Revolution/Evolution," "East/West," "Uniformity," "Body
Consciousness," and "The Splendid Man." In addition to num-
erous illustrations of extant menswear, the book captures the
19th-century dandy, a more restrained brand of expensive
elegance which became the hallmark of Savile Row; the post-
WWII mod, who relished the colorful styles of Carnaby Street;
and the 21st-century man--ultra-chic in a sleek suit by day,
wearing a flowered tuxedo by night. Reigning Men illuminates
connections between history and high fashion, traces cultural
influences over the centuries, examines how uniforms have
profoundly shaped fashionable dress, and reveals that women
aren't the only ones who cinch and pad their bodies. Beautifully
produced and lavishly illustrated, this eye-opening book will
certainly appeal to men and women alike.