Fashion design is both an industrial and cultural phenomenon. It stretches from the glamorous catwalks of fashion epicentres, to the industrial factories in far-flung countries. It is ever-changing, and reflects the desires and aspirations of society. It discovers and capitalizes on advances in technology.

The collection of dresses in this book provides an introduction to the path fashion has taken in the past century. It is a story that embraces social and economic change and radically fluctuating positions on gender and sexuality. From the 1915 Delphos Pleated Dress to Cher's 1988 Oscars dress, these are dresses that have gained a special place in design history.

With stunning photography selected by the Design Museum, Fifty Dresses that Changed the World is the perfect gift for fashionistas and design enthusiasts of all ages.