Customer Reviews

'New Raiments of Self': African American Clothing in the Antebellum South (Dress, Body, Culture)

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And yes, the pun was intended.

This is a wonderfully researched book and very enjoyable to read thanks to the careful organization of chapters and the quality of author insight included. My only complaint, as a matter of fact, is that the author did not infuse the text with more of her own critical observation. The majority of the sources used for this book appear to be Slave Narratives from the 1930's Federal Writer's Project. Helen Foster seems to have worked her way through most if not all of the Narratives in order to fill out the various demands of her book.

The book is one of the precious few resources available to students of costume related to American slaves. It focuses on the American South-East and the 19th century at that. I was delighted that photographs of extant garments and pertinent photographs of slaves in a variety of dress were included along with the text.

I highly, highly recommend this book to anyone studying 19th century slavery in America in general and the garments of slaves in particular. It is clear, well-written and full of information that would take years to find on your own.

Bradley Foster uses primary sources to illutrate the clothing of the African American antebellum community. A must read for anyone who is interested in the social structure of the South.