All the Rage: Power, Pain, Pleasure: Stories from the Frontline of Beauty 1860-1960

All the Rage by Virginia Nicholson explores the history of western female beauty from 1860 to 1960, revealing the power, pain, and pleasure involved in adorning the female body. It examines how custom, color, class, and sex fit into the picture and how the advances made by feminism collided with the changing shape of desirability.

Format: Hardback
Length: 528 pages
Publication date: 11 April 2024
Publisher: Little, Brown Book Group

All the Rage: A History of Western Female Beauty from 1860 to 1960

In her captivating book, "All the Rage: A History of Western Female Beauty from 1860 to 1960," Amanda Foreman delves into the fascinating world of beauty and fashion throughout history. The book takes readers on a journey from the crinoline era to the bikini, exploring the significant mutations in the ideal western woman's body shape over a century.

Through meticulous research and engaging storytelling, Foreman uncovers the power, pain, and pleasure associated with adorning the female body. She examines how societal norms, cultural influences, class distinctions, and gender roles shaped the evolving concept of beauty. The book also explores the intersection of feminism and the changing shape of desirability, highlighting how advancements made by women's rights movements collided with the evolving ideals of beauty.

One of the book's notable aspects is its exploration of the physical and emotional toll that beauty standards have imposed on women. Foreman shares poignant stories of individuals who have faced discrimination, exclusion, and even harm due to their appearance. From botched surgeries to skin color issues that affected Oscar nominations, the book sheds light on the painful consequences of conforming to societal beauty norms.

However, "All the Rage" is not solely a lamentation of the past. It also celebrates the moments of liberation and empowerment that women have experienced throughout history. The book showcases the New Women who defied societal expectations by adopting unconventional hairstyles, the athletic Health and Beauty ladies who embraced boyish attire, and the starlets who embraced bohemian beachwear. These women challenged traditional gender roles and paved the way for greater freedom and self-expression.

The book also delves into the power struggle underlying the beauty industry. Foreman exposes the marketing tactics, advertising campaigns, and societal pressures that have shaped women's perceptions of their bodies. She challenges the notion that beauty is solely about physical appearance and highlights the deeper psychological and emotional implications of beauty standards.

"All the Rage" is a richly detailed account that offers a comprehensive understanding of western female beauty from 1860 to 1960. It is a must-read for anyone interested in history, fashion, and the societal pressures that shape our perceptions of beauty. Through Foreman's engaging writing and insightful analysis, the book provides a valuable contribution to our understanding of the complex and ever-evolving relationship between women, beauty, and power.

Weight: 824g
Dimension: 244 x 163 x 45 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780349014319