Focusing primarily on the works of Zola, Rachilde, Huysmans, and Maupassant, Fashioning Spaces is a beautifully written, well-researched investigation of fashion and space in the French novel. Brevik-Zenders incorporation of an analysis of material culture and history as context for her interpretations is particularly impressive.
- Alexandra K. Wettlaufer, Departments of French and Comparative Literature, University of Texas Fashioning Spaces successfully employs an interdisciplinary approach to analyse paintings, clothes, novels, and interior spaces. Scholars of French literature, cultural studies, nineteenth-century studies, cultural history, and gender studies will be interested in this compelling book.
- Aimee Boutin, Department of French, Florida State University 'Brevik-Zender has written a lucid and dynamic account of the work of fashion in the less visible spaces of the Third Republic Parisian culture It is rare that scholars of literature and culture successfully integrate real fashion into discussions of the cultures of fashion. But Brevik-Zender has done so.'
- Susan Hiner (Nineteenth Century French Studies, vol 44:1-2:2015) Breviks work is thought-provoking, challenging our received narrative of nineteenth-century Paris fashion, and allowing us to see it in its cultural context. This book is a useful addition to the literature.
- Clare Rose (Costume vol 50:02:2016) Heidi Brevik-Zenders monograph is a fascinating book which addresses a neglected area of research in French studies. This is volume that will be of interest to all scholars of this important period.
- Claire Moran (Modern Language Review vol 112:01:2017)