The Season: A Social History of the Debutante [Paperback]

A Richardson writes sharply and with greatest wit and enthusiasm of the debutante rituals importance. Sharply observed and oddly timely, this history of the debutante ball explores a ritual whose social and historical significance has often been overlooked.& Richardson delves into a variety of fascinating deb scenes. An immersive history, and one with remarkable empathy for the women populating it. Kristen Richardson writes so gracefully, and tells a story of courtship and marriage I knew nothing about and found fascinating. Phenomenal.& [I]ncludes dozens of captivating interviews with those whove chosen to debut. [Kristen] Richardsons sharp account of how the season evolved& is a more absorbing story than any period drama. A detailed examination of modern debutante societies& Richardsons engaging study deserves credit for its persistently humane treatment of her subjects. [A] fascinating social history. [A] serious, enlightening look at debutantes throughout history.& Richardson reveals a rich and complicated world. Class power has never been about wealth alone. As Kristen Richardson skillfully and colorfully documents, the marriage marketand the courtly ritual of the debutantelays open a long, troubling, transatlantic history. This engaging book reminds us that mock royalty and the trophy daughter, whether its Consuelo Vanderbilt in 1894 or Ivanka Trump more recently, are at the center of Americas love affair with the rich and beautiful. US