Christine wrote us to ask for feedback about a cute little book: Inside Out: A Brief History of Underwear (National Trust) by Shelley Tobin & Andreas Einsiedel that traces the items that were used to squeeze women into a variety of shapes and styles, from the stays and corsets of the early 18th century to the silk and lace-trimmed items of the early 20th century.

As we haven’t read it ourselves, we decided to ask you about it. Is there anyone out there who can share more about this coveted book?

Meanwhile, Christine, you might want to check out another great related history of undergarments – The History of Underclothes , by C. Willet and Phillis Cunnington. It’s a fascinating survey of various undergarments worn by the English over six centuries. Well-documented, scholarly presentation enhanced with over 100 period illustrations depicting laced-up bodice of the 12th century, embroidered linen drawers (1500s), hooped petticoat support (c. 1750), footed long drawers (1795), 19th-century bustles, early 19th-century corsets for men, Victorian “bust improvers,” this is one book we highly recommend.

As it walks the reader through a large period of time, some details are briefly covered. Otherwise, it’s an excellent resource for any professional costumer and also whoever is interested in learning more about what our ancestors wore and why. Its self-explanatory illustrations are really exquisite and come from primary sources, making The History of Underclothes a valuable book to own.

Both books are available at Amazon.