Origin and Early History of the Fashion Plate

"Origin and Early History of the Fashion Plate" by J. L. Nevinson is a scholarly historical account written in the mid-20th century. This book traces the development of fashion plates, which are artistic representations that indicate clothing styles, from their inception in the late 15th and early 16th centuries through their evolution during the 19th century. The aim is to provide an understanding of how these illustrations reflected societal changes in fashion consciousness and communication. In this detailed examination, Nevinson outlines the origins of fashion plates, noting that they began as costume portraits for identity representation rather than individual features. He chronicles their transformation, highlighting improvements in communication and transportation that fueled the growth of interest in foreign fashions and styles. The book also explores key figures and publications that contributed to the fashion plate industry, illustrating how fashion became increasingly accessible to the middle social classes through periodicals and magazines. This work not only serves as an informative resource for costume historians but also emphasizes the socio-cultural context surrounding the evolution of fashion illustration.