Patterns of Fashion 4: The cut and construction of linen shirts, smocks, neckwear, headwear and accessories for men and women c. 1540 - 1660

The Janet Arnold books are a great resource for anyone into the history of costume and costume making. I bought this book for myself a while ago and have made many variations and adaptations of the ruff patterns. It has been my present of choice for friends who work as makers for the theatre, opera and film. The photographs of actual shirts and accessories worn at the time are very useful for getting a sense of the fabrics and materials used. A very inspiring book , I only wish it came in hardback form as mine is looking very dog-eared.

Outstanding book. The first half goes through existing garments, with photographs of the costume and any details, then the second half has the patterns for these garments on an imperial grid. The patterns are of the garment as seen, so to make to fit, adjustments will have to be made. There is also a section all about linen work and how to starch ruffs. So much information, this book will have everything you need to know about linen garments in the period mentioned.

I don't know how any historical sewer lives without these books! Purchased for help measuring up a 17th century shirt.

I have been looking at this book for ages wondering if it would be of interest to me, that's the problem with not being able to look inside. Now I have finally bought it and I'm delighted. It's got so much information and is absolutely fascinating. I'm sure I'll be reading it from cover to cover. And of course I'll be wanting the others in the series too.

I first saw a copy of this series of books back in the early 1980's studying Theatre Design. They are a fantastic source of information about period styles and lines with examples of original patterns. Put together by a costume designer, I think they are a must have for people interested in costume and history.

A useful tool in helping one create some of the accessories for those who want to wear more historically correct garments for fun or history activities. The lace samples are extremely helpful to those of us who are lacemakers and helps me guide my re-enactor friends with what kind of lace is appropriate for their costumes.

I bought this book because I have all the others written by this author. The pictures are good, the book stays on topic and is very informative, definately a series to dip into for the rest of my life... I highly recommend this book and the others in this series....

Actually that is not true. If you are buying this book, it is because you really do want to know just what kinds of linen were used to make a ruff, exactly how the seams are constructed in a shirt.. You are, in fact, a said costume geek like me and you will love this, as much as you loved all her other books. Nothing to criticise!