What does the society do?

The society aims to encourage access to costume history, including contemporary dress in various different ways. Costume, the society's journal, is published every year and presents the latest research on all aspects of dress worldwide, from pre-history to the present day. It also reviews recent books and exhibitions. The symposium is a theme-based weekend conference with key speakers and affords an opportunity for members to present their research. It also acts as the society's social focus.

The biannual newsletter keeps members in touch with what is going on in the Society and where the latest exhibitions, courses and study days are being held.

The society produces an annual programme of meetings which cover a range of subjects and periods, and has organised visits to collections, exhibitions and archives including overseas visits to some of the great European, North American and Indian Museums.