THEA 365A: Costume and Fashion History (Fall '23)

Covering innovations in fabric through time, in conjunction with the trajectory of changing silhouettes in fashion from the ancient world through the modern era. Readings explore both art historical and extant examples, as well as evolving fashion technologies. With a dual focus on stage costume and everyday dress, the syllabus takes into account patterns of cross-cultural exchange, especially as they pertain to the relationship between clothing and gender expression. Hands-on exercises and research assignments explore fabrics used throughout time (and still in use today), as well as the legal regulations and social ramifications that have accompanied major changes in costume, fashion, and dress.