Well as a woman, I can say that I am very happy to live in the time where I need only a few basic undergarments. The fact that just over 100 years ago, we were practically encased in 3 to 4 layers before the "outer layer" was then applied, is practically unimaginable.
The fantastic illustrations give the view an idea of the items and their placement and purpose. A good book to use if one is trying to re-create a period piece for theater or film.