If You Love Fashion, You’ll Adore These 15 Best Historical Fiction Books About Fashion

I could never be accused of being a fashion girly, but what I am is a book-obsessed babe, and there’s really nothing I love more than diving into the most eccentric subcultures.

And if you’ve been anywhere on this planet, you know that the fashion industry has produced one of the most amazing subcultures ever.

In this post, I have listed some of my favorite historical fiction books about fashion, clothing, and all of that fun stuff – it’s just the loveliest thing.

When I was putting together this list, I realized that the bulk of them are dual-timeline books, and isn’t that just iconic?

I love the idea of something fashion-related – maybe clothing, jewelry, or something else – connecting individuals across different generations.

As someone who has grown up in a culture where heirlooms are pretty much nonexistent, this is literally what I live for.

So if you’re in the mood to read some historical fiction books about fashion, jewelry, or something along those lines, then you’re going to enjoy the books in this post.

The Dressmakers of Prospect Heights by Kitty Zeldis

Set in 1920s New York, this is a story of three women whose lives unexpectedly intertwine.

Beatrice, a dressmaker starting fresh in Brooklyn, is raising Alice, a teenage girl she brought with her from New Orleans.

Just down the block, Catherine, a wealthy newlywed, is longing for a child she can’t have.

As Beatrice and Catherine form a close bond, Alice feels left out and runs away, and this sets off a chain of events that reveal secrets from all their pasts.

This book has that perfect mix of historical detail, strong female relationships, and a touch of drama – exactly the kind of story that makes you feel completely immersed in another time.

The Roaring Days of Zora Lily by Noelle Salazar

In 1924, Zora Hough dreams of becoming a famous fashion designer, but in reality, she’s just a struggling seamstress trying to help her family survive.

When she gets a taste of the dazzling world of underground speakeasies, complete with music, dancing, and glamorous dresses, she starts to believe her dreams might actually come true.

Fast-forward to 2023, when a museum curator finds Zora’s name hidden on the label of a famous gown – revealing a past that was never told.

I love stories like this, where ambition, love, and self-discovery come together in a way that feels both exciting and emotional.

The Grace Kelly Dress by Brenda Janowitz

This one is all about love, family, and the magic of a wedding dress passed down through generations.

In 1958, Rose is a talented seamstress tasked with making a gown inspired by Grace Kelly’s iconic wedding dress.

But when she falls for the bride’s brother, she’s forced to choose between love and security.

Fast-forward sixty years, and Rocky, a modern bride-to-be, doesn’t want to wear the heirloom dress, but she has no idea about the deep family secrets tied to it.

This book feels like a warm hug that’s full of nostalgia, romance, and the power of tradition.

The Wedding Veil by Kristy Woodson Harvey

Four women, one stunning wedding veil, and a connection to the famous Vanderbilt family – this book weaves together history and romance beautifully.

In the present, Julia is about to get married but suddenly doubts her decision, and this leads her to escape to the Virgin Islands.

At the same time, her grandmother Babs is navigating life after losing her husband and unexpectedly reconnects with an old flame.

Meanwhile, in 1914, socialite Edith Vanderbilt is trying to save her family’s legacy while her daughter Cornelia dreams of a future beyond their lavish estate.

If you love multigenerational stories with family secrets and historical depth, this one is perfect.

The Dressmakers of London by Julia Kelly

Set in 1940s London, this story follows two sisters who inherit their mother’s dress shop after her sudden passing.

Izzie is quiet and prefers the comfort of sewing, while Sylvia is ambitious and dreams of a wealthy life.

Their relationship is already strained, but when World War II changes their paths, they’re forced to find their way back to each other.

I have a soft spot for sister stories, especially when they involve wartime resilience, so this one sounds like a deeply touching read.

The Disappearance of Astrid Bricard by Natasha Lester

A glamorous, multigenerational story about three women in fashion who refuse to be forgotten.

In 1917, Mizza Bricard fights to make her name in the fashion world.

In 1970, her granddaughter Astrid is a talented designer on the verge of success when she suddenly vanishes, leaving behind only a white silk dress.

And in the present, Astrid’s daughter Blythe wants nothing to do with the fashion world until she realizes there’s so much more to her family’s story.

I love how this book spans different eras and how it shows the way dreams and struggles can echo through generations.

The Milliner’s Secret by Natalie Meg Evans

Cora Masson reinvents herself as Coralie de Lirac, a Parisian milliner (hat maker) who hides her humble roots to climb the fashion world.

But when World War II begins and Paris falls under Nazi rule, Coralie has to decide if she’ll protect herself or fight for what she believes in.

This one feels like a blend of glamour, survival, and bravery.

So, it’s perfect if you love strong female leads in historical settings.

A Dress of Violet Taffeta by Tessa Arlen

Based on the true story of Lucy, Lady Duff Gordon, this novel follows a woman who built a fashion empire at a time when women weren’t supposed to be independent.

After being abandoned by her husband, Lucy turns her talent for dressmaking into a career that takes her from struggling single mother to fashion icon.

But then, in 1912, she survives the Titanic disaster, and everything changes again.

This book isn’t just about fashion – it’s about strength, reinvention, and refusing to let life’s hardships define you.

The Paris Seamstress by Natasha Lester

In 1940, Estella Bissette is forced to flee Paris with nothing but a sewing machine and a dream of becoming a fashion designer in New York.

Decades later, her granddaughter Fabienne is uncovering secrets from Estella’s past – secrets tied to love, war, and ambition.

This one has all the makings of a sweeping, emotional read, especially for anyone who loves stories about fashion, family, and second chances.

The Hidden Thread by Liz Trenow

This one takes us back to 18th-century London, where Anna Butterfield moves in with her silk-merchant uncle.

She falls for Henri, a talented but struggling French weaver, but class differences and social turmoil threaten to keep them apart.

The historical setting and focus on the craft of silk weaving make this one feel especially rich and unique.

The Gown by Jennifer Robson

A beautiful, behind-the-scenes look at the making of Queen Elizabeth II’s wedding dress.

In 1947, two young women working as embroiderers at a London fashion house are chosen for the once-in-a-lifetime task of stitching the royal gown.

But their personal struggles and friendships become just as important as the history they’re creating.

Decades later, a woman discovers her grandmother’s secret connection to the gown, unraveling a hidden past.

This book has history, friendship, and a touch of royal magic – what’s not to love?

The Memory Dress by Jade Beer

This book ties together two different timelines through a stunning dress once owned by Princess Diana.

In 2018, Jayne meets her elderly neighbor Meredith, who is struggling with memory loss and has no idea where her husband is.

Determined to help, Jayne stumbles upon a couture gown linked to the late princess.

Meanwhile, in 1988, young Meredith is working in fashion, caught up in a romance that changes everything.

This story feels both heartbreaking and heartwarming.

And, I frankly feel it’s perfect if you love mysteries woven into historical fiction.

By Her Own Design by Piper Huguley

This one tells the incredible true story of Ann Lowe, the Black designer behind Jackie Kennedy’s famous wedding dress.

Despite her talent, Ann faces endless challenges due to racism and sexism, but she refuses to be erased from history.

I love stories that celebrate real women who made an impact, and Ann’s journey is one that deserves to be known.

Mrs. Lincoln’s Dressmaker by Jennifer Chiaverini

This is the incredible true story of Elizabeth “Lizzie” Keckley, a former slave who became Mary Todd Lincoln’s personal dressmaker – and her close friend.

Lizzie witnessed history firsthand, standing by Mrs. Lincoln through heartbreak and loss.

But when she wrote a memoir about their time together, it caused a scandal, which ended their friendship.

I love books that bring forgotten women back into the spotlight, and Lizzie’s story is one of strength, talent, and resilience.