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The Dress of Women A Critical Introduction to the Symbolism and Sociology of Clothing
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Charlotte Perkins Gilman, Michael R. Hill, Mary Jo Deegan
Book Code: GM1270
ISBN: 0-313-31270-2
ISBN-13: 978-0-313-31270-0
192 pages
Greenwood Press
Publication: 10/30/2001
List Price: $115.00 (UK Sterling Price: £65.00)
Availability: In Stock
Media Type: Hardcover
Trim Size: 6 1/8 x 9 1/4
Subjects:
Series Title: Contributions in Women's Studies
Series Number: 193
Reviews:
  • All levels/collections.
    —Choice     October 2002
  • While certainly Gilman enthusiasts will be pleased to read this fine example of her feminist and sociological insight, with Gilman's engaging prose, ans especially because of its contemporary relevance, The Dress of Women: A Critical Introduction to the Symbolism and Sociology of Clothing should be of interest to a wide range of readers.
    —Contemporary Sociology     .
Description: Originally serialized in 1915 in The Forerunner, and never before published in book form, The Dress of Women presents Gilman's feminist sociological analysis of clothing in modern society. Gilman explores the social and functional basis for clothing, excavates the symbolic role of women's clothing in patriarchal societies, and, among other things, explicates the aesthetic and economic principles of socially responsible clothing design. The introduction, by Hill and Deegan, situates The Dress of Women within Gilman's intellectual work as a sociologist, and relates her sociological ideas to the themes she developed in some of her other works. Although written in 1915, Gilman's treatment of clothing and dress remains relevant. This pioneering effort adds substantially to Gilman's reputation as a sociological theorist and feminist. In addition, it represents one of the earliest full-length specifically sociological analyses of clothing and the fashion industry. Ultimately, the author concludes that harmful and degrading aspects of women's dress are amenable to reform if men and women will work together rationally to change the controlling institutional patterns of the society in which they live. This groundbreaking work will appeal to those interested in Gilman, feminist theory, sociological theory, social psychology, women's literature, and women's studies.
Table of Contents:
  • Introduction
  • Prefatory Note
  • Primary Motives in Clothing
  • Some Modifying Forces
  • The Principle Involved
  • Physical Health and Beauty
  • Beauty vs. Sex Distinction
  • The Hat
  • Decorative Art, Trimmings, and Ornament
  • Humanitarian and Economic Considerations
  • Larger Economic Considerations
  • The Force Called Fashion
  • Fashion and Psychology
  • Hope and Comfort
  • Endnotes
  • Index
LC Card Number: 2001023884
LCC Class: HM511
Dewey Class: 301
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