Beads have been a fascinating method for embellishing fashion since
ancient cultures sought personal adornment. The twentieth century has
seen some of the most innovative, colorful, and wonderful uses for
beading as an enhancement in apparel, and, recently, beads have come
into fashion as never before. Both vintage and recent costume are
desirable as much, if not more, for their beading as for the overall
design. This lavishly illustrated book includes chapters on the history,
techniques, preservation, and collecting of beads in the world of
fashion. With 534 beautiful color photos, a detailed text, captions,
value guide, index, and bibliography, it is the first to cover both
vintage and recent costume and accessories in one volume. With clothing
by designers, ranging from Fortuny and Mackie to unknowns, this volume
will delight anyone in the field of fashion.