Explore the history of the United States from pre-Civil War to contemporary society as reflected through targeted as well as changing styles in costume and dress. Examine the ability of dress as a device that can communicate political, social, economic, aesthetic and cultural change. Analyze clothing choices as related to exterior motivations including protection, gender, status and decoration. Relate the power of dress to particular demographic groups throughout history. Acquire a vocabulary with which to describe apparel and related items. Textiles and Apparel 303 (Topic: Fashioning America) and 318E may not both be counted. Three lecture hours a week for one semester.