It was traditionally said that clothes maketh the man. But what codes and meanings are associated with dress in a society that consists of divisions between class; race; gender; family status and religion? Is social and cultural life still fundamentally themed by the clothes that we wear? If so; how should we read these codes and themes in order to decipher their relation to power and meaning? This exhaustive book demonstrates how dress shapes and is shaped by social processes and phenomena such as beauty; time; the body; the gift exchange; class; gender and religion. It does this through an analysis of topics like the Islamic clothing controversy in state schools; the multitude of identities associated with dress; the Dress Reform movement; the construction of the body in fashion magazines and the role of the internet in fashion. What emerges is a trenchant; sharply observed account of the place of dress in contemporary society. The book will be of interest to students and researchers in Sociology; Cultural Studies; Womens Studies; Gender Studies; Anthropology and Fashion Studies.
#1025256 in eBooks 2011-10-01 2011-10-01File Name: B0073W1NZ4
Review
15 of 15 people found the following review helpful. This is a worthwhile memoir...Trust MeBy SkyhighI say the same thing every time I see George Kennedy in a movie. "I love that guy!" I had the same reaction when I read his memoir. Its no wonder this man has appeared in over 200 movies and was given a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Intelligent. down to earth. and witty. Georges writing is as great as his acting. Imagine writing a book at 86 years old. This alone inspires me. not to mention his life story. which starts with the Great Depression and the early. sudden death of his father. Major difficulties followed. yet there is humor. wisdom. determination. and tenderness on every page. If you are into movies and acting. this book is especially for you. But you dont have to be a movie buff to enjoy this book for it isnt just about movie stars. It is about being human and making the most of it.I am a fan of memoirs and real-life stories. and this one stands out because the voice is conversational. honest. insightful. humorous. and appreciative. There are many great photos that support the storyline. Trust Me has prompted lots of thought about values and goals. This is an empowering book--I am happy I bought it and will read it again.6 of 6 people found the following review helpful. Getting To Know YouBy Sandra GrabmanMost times. I have one book on the kitchen table to read while eating lunch and another book in the bedroom to read when I go to bed. Once I began reading "Trust Me." though. I carried that book with me everywhere except work. as I continued to read it. It was that good. Mr. Kennedy has had a highly-successful career and has gained much wisdom along the way. In his case. a childhood of neglect and emotional abuse must have molded him into a very caring man. (Its interesting to ponder why a disadvantaged childhood makes some people stronger. Is it in the genes? Are there other people in their lives who inspire them to overcome?) In Mr. Kennedys life. it seems to have made him very aware and appreciative of the people around him. This book was very well written and even includes essays about some of his famous castmates that give us an insiders view of them. If he said an unkind word about anyone. I sure dont remember it. Thank you for writing this book. Mr. Kennedy. May you have a happy and rewarding rest-of-your-life. We appreciate you.1 of 1 people found the following review helpful. Wow...George Kennedy. thank you for a wonderful read.By David R. RehmOf all the memoirs or autobiographys of the "Hollywood" folks Ive read recently. Mr. Kennedys had been the most entertaining and enjoyable. His writing style is clean. simple and direct. He doesnt mince words with his descriptions of his upbringing. his family and personal life. the movie lifestyle and his recollections of the movie industry people hes known. He writes fondly. oftentimes lovingly of the "stars" and other background people in the entertainment world hes know and rarely has a coarse word about anyone. How refreshing that is in this day and age of writing with the intent to blame or sensationalize with the intention of selling a book. If youre interested just a bit in how the movie. TV and acting world works. then this is a good read. His insights and experiences with major players. minor players. actors and non-actors is interesting. informative and just plain enjoyable to read. He has a way with words. coupling phrases with humor and insight. Reading this memoir is a treat. I would like to meet the man. because Im sure that once we began talking. hed make me grin.Even if youre not a film fan. this is a good. fun read. well written and full of great insights into the movie and TV world.Thanks. George.