As a work of both art history and fashion history, Seeing Through Clothes is a strikingly original and important book. In it Anne Hollander explores her groundbreaking theory: That the way we look or want to look is influenced not so much by other people or notions of comfort as by the way the human image is represented in art.
In linked chapters covering drapery, nudity, dress and undress, costumes, and mirrors, Anne Hollander demonstrates how clothes in art have contributed to our imaginative and idealized visualizations of the human body, from ancient Greek sculpture through photography and modern art. Seeing Through Clothes is a lively and informative look at changing ideals and changing customs.
Originally published in 1978 by Viking Press, New York.