A study in preserved 18th century garments in Swedish museum collections. All garments are measured so that the readers can create their own costumes. 18th century technological development is described in texts about a silk weaving mill and Jonas Alströmers manufactory in Alingsås. How the upper class were dressed is being clarified in excerpts from an old diary of a Swedish lady. The book is richly illustrated with newly taken photos. The target group is partly those who themselves are interested in designing and sewing their own costume, partly those who are interesting in history and cultural heritage.