I have spent the week cramming for, among other tests, an exam for my History of Fashion class. We're studying the 12th-15th centuries and it's safe to say that, at the moment, I know more about past fashion trends than I do about current ones... as I still haven't had a chance to open my April Harper's Bazaar.While I could do without learning about the Black Death (again), the Crusades (again), and the Renaissance (and... again), I found the social aspect of historical fashion fascinating. Even in the 15th century, dress had an enormous impact on one's social standing. Then, only the most prestiguous families could dress in finery like furs, brocades, and pearls because these luxuries were so impossible to obtain. Now, only the most prestiguous couture lovers can dress in Chanel Couture, animal skin Manolos, and Harry Winston diamonds for the same reason... and the rest of us, instead of resorting to rags and castoffs, can buy impressive knockoffs from H&M. Isn't it incredible how little things have changed in thousands of years?Other eerie similarities:. The shoe of choice was called a poulet which looks alarmingly similar to last seasons' pointy-toe bootie.. The most provocative women wore "sideless gowns" which gave passersby a peek at their underthings. Has Britney Spears been getting her fashion inspiration from historical fashion text books?. Women loved their clothing trimmed in a rich dose of fur. Pre-PETA, life was so simple.-tf

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