Fashion Sourcebooks is a series of beautifully illustrated paperbacks presenting the costume drawings of John Peacock. The series charts the development of women's and men's clothing from 1900 onwards, with a volume devoted to the fashions of each decade. John Peacock's Fashion Sourcebooks are destined to become an indispensable part of the library of any fashion enthusiast, historian, or collector, and are sure to provide inspiration to any designer or student working in the performing arts. The 1950s witnessed a new femininity in women's fashion. By the early years of the decade, the influence of Dior's New Look was reflected in softer shoulders, nipped-in waists, and fuller skirts. Male dress, too, became less rigid. The year-by-year format allows these developments to be shown in fascinating detail. Day Wear, Evening Wear, Sports and Leisure Wear, and accessories are included, and complete descriptions of each garment accompany the drawings, itemizing color, cut, necklines, sleeves, fastenings, buttons, and belts. The reference section charts the evolution of fashion and garment-shapes, and provides biographies of outstanding 1950s designers and a bibliography.