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The Virtues of Underwear

The Virtues of Underwear Modesty, Flamboyance and Filth

Hardback (01 Aug 2024)

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Publisher's Synopsis

Laced with illustrations of undergarments both prosaic and exotic, a global exposé of the hidden meaning of knickers, lingerie, and everything in between.
 
This book unravels the intimate narratives woven into the fabric of our most personal garments. From the first loincloths to the intricate layers of shapewear, the narrative explores the concealed world of underwear as a silent communicator of individual desire and societal affiliation. As an indicator of the pulse of fashion, underwear has evolved from minimalism to intricate designs with new materials. Beyond its role in denying our corporeal nature, underwear safeguards and exposes, reflecting our innermost desires and past experiences.
 
From clean underclothing resisting carnal urges to the protective embrace of fabric, this book illuminates the profound, often hidden stories told by the garments beneath our outer layers. It rewards the reader with historical insights into both women's and men's underwear and global cultures of dress.

About the Publisher

Reaktion Books

Reaktion originally focused on the fields of art, architecture and design - its first book was Ian Hamilton Finlay: A Visual Primer by Yves Abrioux. In recent years Reaktion's list has broadened substantially, and now also encompasses animal studies, Asian art and culture, biography, cultural studies, current events, fashion, film, food history, geography, general history, music, philosophy, photography, politics, sports history and travel writing. Reaktion now produces around 80 new titles each year, and has about 600 titles in print.

Book information

ISBN: 9781789149562
Publisher: Reaktion Books
Imprint: Reaktion Books
Pub date:
DEWEY: 391.423
DEWEY edition: 23
Language: English
Number of pages: 224
Weight: 616g
Height: 241mm
Width: 165mm
Spine width: 27mm