This book is the story of how fabrics have shaped our history. It’s a great book to dip in and out of – the author brings us from ancient history all the way up to the present day.
There are of course sections on linen, silk and wool, which are all fascinating. The modern sections are also very interesting. I really enjoyed the section about technical fabrics – especially where they get into extreme environments. The two most interesting sections were about polar explorations and high mountain (ie: Everest) climbing, and the section on the Apollo space suits.
Like the author’s Secret Lives of Colour, this is a great book to have on the side to break up other reading. I really enjoyed this journey through history.