Fashions in Hair - Richard Corson Large hardcover book, 4th impression 1980

FASHIONS IN HAIR

The first 5000 years

by RICHARD CORSON

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Used hardcover ex-library book with dustjacket, 4th impression with revised supplement published 1980. Book measures 19 x 26 cms. 720 pages with over 3500 illustrations. ISBN 0720632838

Book is in good condition with the usual library stamps and stickers - no torn, loose or missing pages, clean, tight binding. Some pen and pencil notations and marks on some pages. Hardcover boards are scuffed at lower edges. Dustjacket is also in good condition, covered in clear protective plastic.

The most comprehensive book on the subject. With thousands of drawings of hairstyles and beards, based on the author's meticulous research. Organised in chronological order from Ancient Egyptian men and women, 2700 BC to modern-day - 1978. Very extensive source list and index.

Fashions in Hair is the first book to attempt a comprehensive historical survey of the enormous diversity of men's and women's hair styles throughout the ages. Profusely illustrated and carefully documented, it ranges from Ancient Egyptian, Greek, Roman and Anglo-Saxon times to recent trends in fashion, and provides an absorbing record of changing attitudes and tastes.

Perhaps the most outstanding feature of the book are well over 3000 drawings by the author, illustrating the heads of monarchs, politicians, writers, artists and society people who set trends in hair fashion. These are based on many years' research and are meticulous in their detail. The author also includes a number of rare period prints and drawings which enhance the sociological interest of the book.

In his text, Richard Corson surveys in detail the styles of each century, analysing trends and prejudices within their social context. Quoting from contemporary writing he describes methods for the construction of the elaborate and intricate hair styles that have periodically been in vogue, using frames, padding, false curls, wigs and ornaments. He pays equal attention to the great variety of men's styles and provides a full account of the numerous kinds of wigs, moustaches and beards that men have worn at various times. As well as recounting anecdotes, the author traces the development of the hairdressing industry and its techniques and describes the lives of the chief creators of fashion.

About the author

Richard Corson taught theatrical makeup in colleges and universities throughout the United States. He also performed as an actor and worked as a theatrical makeup consultant for Broadway plays. His book, Stage Makeup, has become the standard text on the subject, while his three valuable social histories, Fashions in Makeup, Fashions in Hair and Fashions in Eyeglasses are renowned as classics in their field. He died in 1999.

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Fashions in Hair: The first 5000 years by Richard Corson