This is the most complete, and in fact, the only in-depth book I have read on tailored garments for men and women in the 1910s. Ir is a "must have" for costumers, recreators, or any serious historians. The combination of authentic patterns and drafts, original ready-to-wear fashions from catalogs, and commentary in the form of original articles give a well-rounded and comprehensive collection of primary source material.
Particularly useful are the discussions of kilts and their accompanying vests and jackets, the Chesterfield coat, and many stules and variations of women's riding habits and pleated skirts.
The table of contents lists more than 75 additional styles for both sexes ranging from military wear, sports clothes and underwear, to capes, kimonos, and breeches. Examples are geographically diverse and come from the United States, United Kingdom, Germany, France and Russia.
This time period, previously lost between the Edwardians and the Flappers, is distinctive and worthy of study. I loved this book! i can't speak highly enough of it. --Mary Roehr - tailor, educator, author
Good news for British reenactors -- finally, there is a source for uniform patterns! R.L.Shep has recently published The Great War: Styles and Patterns of the 1910s, which contains original material from London's West End Gazette, a tailor's journal from 1915 - 16.
The pattern drawings show how to measure and cut several styles of British uniforms, while the text explains some of the uniform regulations and other interesting details. One of the most useful things about the text, is that it gives the types of fabric used in the uniforms and linings, and exact measurements for pocket placement, etc.
Some of the uniforms included in the book are: Service dress tunic and trousers for enlisted men, overcoats, officers raincoat, RFC "maternity jacket", RFS overcoat, RNAS tunic, riding breeches, Women's Volunteer Services, Red Cross, etc. There are even instructions for making "kilt drawers" for Highland regiments.
If you have ever considered making or altering a British uniform, this nook is essential! Novice tailors might find the instructions difficult, but the drawings are very clear. --On The Wire, Newsletter of the Great War Association -- Fall 1998
