Book Review and Giveaway: Why’d They Wear That?: Fashion as the Mirror of History

Why’d They Wear That?: Fashion as the Mirror of History by Sarah Albee
Publisher: National Geographic Children’s Books
Release Date: February 10, 2015
My rating: 4.5 of 5 stars

Publisher’s Description:

From the invention of needles made from woolly mammoth tusks in 10,000 B.C., to the evolution of armor from chain mail to modern-day bulletproof vests, to the controversy surrounding contemporary outsourcing, Albee looks at history through the lens of fashion as a way to engage young readers.

Each chapter focuses on a major period of world history, from the Neolithic era to the present day, and explores the evolution of fashion as a reflection of the politics, class hierarchies, religion and economics of the time. This highly visual collection is full of colorful sidebars that answer questions that are not usually addressed in the classroom: How did people keep their clothes on before zippers or buttons were invented? How did soldiers go to the bathroom when wearing their heavy armor? Pictures, paintings and artifacts further illustrate the concepts discussed in each chapter, while funny anecdotes and a focus on cultures of interest, such as the Vikings, will keep even the most reluctant readers hooked.

Snappy headlines, a stylish layout and a foreword by “Project Runway” fan favorite Tim Gunn make this extensive and entertaining guide perfect for both in-depth study and casual browsing Why’d They Wear That? is ideal for fashionistas, theater aficionados and history buffs of all ages.

Why’d They Wear That? is full of colorful images and interesting sidebars and boxes with factoids that will keep tween fashionistas interested as they’re learning about fashion through the ages. They’ll be learning about history as well, though they probably won’t even realize it since this book is such a fun read. The history presented in this book is pretty Euro-centric but there a few tidbits from other cultures. It would great if this was the first book in a series. Asia, Africa and the Native Americans could each easily fill a volume with the history of fashion in their cultures I’m sure.

I learned a lot reading it even as an adult as well. I was especially interested how fashion has shaped our language. For instance, the term “mad as a hatter” came about because mercury was one of the ingredients used to make a hat from a beaver pelt. Mercury poisoning can cause erratic behavior and personality changes. Mercury poisoned hatters roamed about towns and cities – thus “mad as a hatter”.

I liked the light-hearted tone and humor with which Why’d They Wear That? was written. The description of polyester had me cracking up, “Polyester can spring back into shape after wear and look just as awful as when new.”

Why’d They Wear That? is a fun and educational book for kids of all ages.

I’m pleased to be able to givaway one copy of Why’d They Wear That? to a lucky reader with a US mailing address. Just fill out the form below. I will take entries until 11:59pm CST on May 7, 2015. Good luck!

(I received a complimentary review copy of this book.)