| Synopsis: |
Traditional costume in Eastern Europe was much more than just a way of dressing. Clothes often expressed a deep sense of national or local identity. They could declare the status or profession of the wearer, or they might signal the onset of a national holiday or celebration. In certain cases, they could even depict the history of an ethnic group or scene from daily life. "Eastern Europe" examines the traditional costumes of this fascinating, complex, and mysterious region, from the ethnic dresses of agricultural laborers to opulent courtly robes. Journeying through some of the most typical and unusual costumes of the region, the book discusses what each one tells us about everyday life and European history, for example: Russian women were obliged to wear head coverings if they were married as a mark of maturity; soleless shoes were often worn in Lithuania to save on expensive shoe leather yet keep the outward appearance of wealth; and, bright colors worn around the cuffs and necklines of peasant clothes were meant to provide protection against evil spirits. |