This is a beautifully illustrated guide to lingerie, starting with the early history of bras and girdles and progressing up to modern times. Lingerie has always been meant to both conceal and reveal, to shape the body and to hide a multitude of sins. In recent years designers such as Jean Paul Gaultier have also used items of lingerie such as bustiers and basques as outerwear to great effect. The book also contains a section on achieveing the correct fit and where to shop for the most beautiful lingerie. All in all, this is a beautiful look at a fascinating subject. It is both a wonderful gift.