Charting over 100 years of knitwear history, Vintage Fashion Knitwear is a visual journey of fashion knitwear from the introduction of fashion handknitting to the current technical innovations that enable the designer to push the boundaries of knitwear. Fascinating archive images, stunning fashion photography and specially commissioned photographs of period fashions showcase the most collectable and innovative pieces ever made. The book looks at the development of knitwear during the turn of the 20th century, then charts the influence of Modernism in the 1920s, the emergence of the iconic Chanel two piece cardigan suit and sportswear, the Art Deco 1930s, and the wartime 'make do and mend' designs of the 1940s. By the 1950s cashmere twin sets and beaded sweaters became the casual uniform for women, while 1960s Op Art and psychedelia led to 1970s arts and crafts influences, moving on to the luxury knits of the 1980s. Each decade ends with a 'key looks' feature showcasing all the important shapes, patterning and designs that defined the time period. Vintage Fashion Knitwear concludes with a final chapter on the 1990s to the present day, looking at the work that is sure to become collectables of the future, including offerings from Alexander McQueen, Bella Freud, Louise Goldin and Julien Macdonald.