From 1920s French knickers to 1950s pin-up brassieres, these fabulous vintage pieces chart the progression of lingerie over the last 120 years. The book covers a range of fascinating garments, including 1890s corsets, 1940s garter belts and basques, 1950s New Look girdles, brassieres, knickers and much more. The book includes 30 fully annotated working patterns alongside drawings, photographs and practical advice on any feature or alteration necessary for making up the garments. For any costume designer working on stage or screen, the historically accurate patterns are an essential for capturing the classic shapes of any period. Fashion students and historians will find the period details and historical background of each garment an invaluable resource. Whether you need to construct a historically accurate period garment or simply wish to channel your inner 1950s starlet, this is the book for you.