Vintage Clothing 1880-1980 by Maryanne Dolan (1995)

Maryanne Dolan's "Vintage Clothing 1880-1980" is a purchase best advised for those interested in collecting garments prior to 1940. The greater part of this book is dedicated to the Victorian and Edwardian eras and those exciting fashions given to us throughout the 1920's, during the Jazz Age.

Dolan offers us a multitude of photographs and catalog illustrations, the majority of which are depicted in black and white, including a handful of poor, scarcely discernable reproductions.

A word of caution should be given as Dolan's prices may not only be irrelevant to the eBay marketplace, but could otherwise be outdated as this is the third edition of the book.

Still, Dolan's guide is filled with ambitious garment descriptions, chapter introductions and loads of charm. It makes for an entertaining and breezy read, and somehow manages to remain engaging, despite its flaws.