This book has many useful illustrations regarding sewing stitches and more modern fashion element like a peplum or shoulder pad. However, it does run short on the historical side. The illustrations depicting historical fashion are not correct (with the exception of a little mid-section of the book with several black and white photographs of artifacts and museum pieces). The definitions for many historical fashion garments do not pin point when they were popular (many are just said to have been popular in a particular century). Therefore, the reader must either have a good basic understanding of historical fashion, or look elsewhere.

Otherwise, I've found this book very helpful when it comes to looking up a stitch type or fabric definition. A nice little addition to any seamstresses' shelf. :-)--Reviewed by C.