Thom Browne’s Fall 2024 Couture Show Blends Sports and High Fashion in Spectacular Paris Debut

Thom Browne brought his signature theatrical flair to the Musée des Arts Décoratifs in Paris for his latest couture show, opening with a striking spectacle: men engaged in a staged tug of war, drawing inspiration from the upcoming Olympic Games. Browne’s narrative intertwined sports motifs with old-world couture and camp aesthetics.

Models evoked classical athletes through exaggerated shoulder lines and cinched waists, challenging traditional gender norms while celebrating vintage sport iconography. The collection featured tennis skirts, dramatic heel-less track boots, and laurel wreath headdresses, alongside whimsical nods to French culture such as hand-painted blue swimming briefs and iconic red bikinis. Browne also adorned jackets and overcoats with beaded ‘tricolore’ lapels, paying homage to France’s rich heritage.

Thom Browne launched his eponymous label in 2001 in New York’s West Village, initially operating by appointment only. Since then, he has garnered acclaim, winning the CFDA Menswear Designer Award multiple times, in 2006, 2012, and 2016. His collections are highly sought-after by celebrities, collectors, and museums alike.

Since 2018, Thom Browne has been part of the Zegna group, who hold a 90% stake. His ready-to-wear line is distributed in over 300 department stores and boutiques across 40 countries, in addition to 110 Thom Browne retail stores worldwide. Browne has described his couture line as complementing his successful commercial ventures, providing a platform to showcase traditional couture techniques while maintaining artistic integrity.

Known for his theatrical presentations, Browne views his shows as opportunities to tell stories and entertain, all while emphasizing meticulously crafted garments. In his own words, “I like to tell a story, I like to entertain, and to ground it in beautifully made clothes.

In a departure from expectations for couture, Thom Browne’s latest collection prominently featured muslin, the humble, lightweight cotton typically used in ateliers for creating initial mock-ups known as ‘toiles.’ According to show notes, muslin served as both the inspiration and the final fabric for many of Browne’s pieces, emphasizing the transformation of a work-in-progress into a couture masterpiece.

Thom Browne employed exposed stitching and ancient techniques like hand-basting in his latest collection to experiment with tailoring and proportions, showcasing his dedication to artisanal craftsmanship and meticulous detailing.

Celebrity stylist Jared Ellner, known for dressing influencers like Emma Chamberlain and actors such as Molly Gordon, praised Thom Browne for his distinct and boundary-pushing aesthetic. According to Ellner, Browne’s designs are instantly recognizable yet allow individuals like Sabrina Carpenter and Emma Chamberlain to express their unique styles. He noted their penchant for dressing like characters, emphasizing personal individuality.

In an era where subtle nuances often go unnoticed on camera, this ability to celebrate personal style could be considered the epitome of luxury.

At Place Vendôme in Paris on Sunday, Anna Wintour and her team unveiled the third edition of Vogue World, a lavish tribute to French fashion and sports in anticipation of the upcoming Olympics Games. The event coincided with the city’s prestigious Haute Couture shows, drawing celebrities and high-paying guests who eagerly shelled out thousands for a front-row seat.

The runway spectacle showcased a thematic journey spanning a century from the 1924 Paris Olympics to the present day. Each sport category was paired with its respective era, featuring dancers performing intricate choreography reminiscent of 1960s fencing and 1970s gymnastics, while models elegantly paraded in outfits that mirrored the time periods.

Among the standout moments was Katy Perry, stunning in an archival Noir Kei Ninomiya cut-out gown, representing the 1980s martial arts segment. The ensemble defied expectations with its bold interpretation, contrasting sharply against the backdrop of traditional sportswear like leggings and track shorts.

In a daring departure from conventional couture, Katy Perry graced the event in a meticulously crafted ensemble fashioned from interlocking leather petals, complete with a voluminous tulle-flower skirt. She humorously remarked in an Instagram story before her appearance, ‘It’s the first time I’ve ever walked… I mean, I walk every day in life, but… It’s couture.’

Recently, naked dresses have seen a resurgence in popularity among celebrities. From Elle Fanning, Kim Kardashian, and Doja Cat at the Met Gala, to Charlize Theron, Jennifer Lawrence, and Florence Pugh at the Oscars, stars have embraced this bold style statement. While typical naked dresses often utilize flesh-colored mesh or crystal netting to suggest nudity subtly, Perry’s attire opted for a more avant-garde approach. Her gown revealed more skin than fabric, with leather shapes covering only a fraction of her body.

At Vogue World, Katy Perry wasn’t alone in pushing fashion boundaries. Jared Leto also made a statement with a daring ensemble, arriving in a transparent sleeveless tunic paired with black briefs. His look was accessorized with black patent riding boots, red-dipped fingers, and a necklace featuring a wooden stake-turned-crucifix pendant. While sheer gowns have predominantly been worn by women, Leto’s bold choice exemplifies confidence that transcends gender norms.

Since its inception in 2011, Lagos Fashion Week has emerged as a biannual highlight on the African fashion calendar, drawing the continent’s leading design houses, prominent sponsors, and an international audience.

In Nigeria, a nation marked by strong religious and conservative values where LGBTQ individuals face severe levels of discrimination and violence, Lagos Fashion Week has stood out as an inclusive platform. It provides space for marginalized communities and innovative brands to gain visibility and amplify their voices. 

For over a decade, Orange Culture, a Nigerian label, has challenged norms through provocative runway shows featuring male models in skirts, makeup, and unconventional attire, sparking conversations on gender fluidity in fashion. Similarly, Maxivive, a Lagos-based fashion entity rooted in nonconformity, has garnered attention with its bold, gender-bending collections that explore themes of sexuality and identity season after season.

In recent years, LGBTQ individuals in Nigeria have observed a shift in Lagos Fashion Week’s once-welcoming environment, as the country experiences rising hostility towards non-binary and gay communities.

In 2014, Nigeria, Africa’s most populous nation, implemented the SSMPA law (Same Sex Marriage Prohibition Act), widely criticized internationally for outlawing gay marriage, same-sex relationships, and activities of LGBTQ rights groups. Violators face penalties including lengthy prison sentences of up to 14 years. Activists argue that these attitudes are increasingly influencing even traditionally progressive sectors like the fashion industry in Nigeria.

Kayode Timileyin, founder of Queercity Media and Production, a prominent non-governmental organization advocating for queer rights in Nigeria, also serves as the festival manager for Lagos Pride. According to Timileyin, there is a longstanding pattern of anti-LGBTQ sentiment within Nigeria’s fashion week scene.

In the Spring-Summer 2022 showcase, the late Fola Francis made history as the first transgender model to grace Lagos Fashion Week’s catwalk, appearing for labels Cute-Saint and Fruché. Her participation marked a significant moment for African fashion and the LGBTQ community, although it also stirred controversy. Francis spoke out about facing backlash and noted the absence of her runway images on Lagos Fashion Week’s social media and press releases, prompting criticism. In a subsequent interview with LGBTQ magazine Xtra, she expressed disappointment, saying, ‘I heard Lagos Fashion Week decided not to post any of my pictures or include them in press releases. Why am I not surprised?’ 

In another incident, Maxivive, known for its avant-garde approach, had its Spring-Summer 2023 show abruptly canceled by organizers shortly before its scheduled date. While founder Papa Oyeyemi declined to comment on the cancellation to CNN, industry discussions suggested the decision was linked to the show being perceived as ‘too gay’ by event organizers.

Discovering the Liberty of Authenticity

Amid mounting societal and legal pressures regarding gender, sexuality, and inclusivity in Nigeria, more fashion labels are opting to showcase their collections through independent, private presentations held off the traditional fashion schedule. This allows them greater freedom to embody their brand ethos away from the spotlight of Lagos Fashion Week.

From brands like Tzar Studios, known for its visually daring contemporary menswear inspired by the metrosexual ethos, to Weiz Dhurm Franklyn’s ready-to-wear collections, these exclusive “invite-only” presentations are organized by designers who carefully select undisclosed venues and invite trusted journalists, influencers, celebrities, and fashion insiders to attend.

Udiahgebi, renowned for its androgynous fashion, has found success in organizing private shows. According to brand creative director Chiemerie Udiahgebi Ugwoke, the house made waves with its debut runway in 2022 by featuring five non-binary models, receiving overwhelmingly positive feedback.

The response following my show was surprisingly positive,” they shared via email. “Considering the societal norms, I anticipated more negative reviews due to the gender-neutral designs featuring transparent fabrics, animal prints, and daring cut-outs.

Aso Nigeria, known for its androgynous and inclusive designs, featured Fola Francis in both a private runway show in December 2022 and a fashion campaign launched in February 2024. Founder Aanuoluwa Ajide-Daniels emphasized that including a trans woman aligns with the core values of the brand, which will continue to prioritize such representation.

“Fashion, to me, is an art that sparks dialogue and challenges perceptions,” commented Kayode Timileyin. “However, in recent years, Lagos Fashion Week has increasingly stifled and restricted these conversations.” While advocating for an inclusive future in African fashion cannot be confined to private settings alone, many designers currently view it as the only essential means to freely express their artistic visions.

Ancient ‘Mamianqun’ Skirt Resurfaces in Chinese Urban Fashion: Once exclusive to ‘hanfu’ enthusiasts, the traditional design gains traction in Shanghai, Beijing, and Chengdu. Modern interpretations blend historic charm with contemporary styles, expanding its appeal from ceremonial attire to everyday fashion among young Chinese.

“The Skirt’s Popularity Fuels ‘New Chinese Style’ Trend: Blending Contemporary Design with Traditional Aesthetics Across Fashion and Decor.”

From Outdated to Profitable: ‘New Chinese Style’ Surges on E-commerce. Chinese platforms leverage Gen Z’s patriotism, boosting sales with hashtags like ‘new Chinese style outfits.’ Social media showcases blend modern and traditional, from furniture to landscape wallpapers, reflecting a lucrative shift in consumer preferences and marketing strategies. China’s ‘New Chinese Style’ Clothing Market Hits $138 Million in 2023: Xiaohongshu User Shares Styling Tips for Traditional Attire, Combining Contemporary Fashion with Cultural Heritage.

According to a message sent to CNN, a user named Momo believes that many young people are increasingly embracing traditional culture to express their individuality, which she finds positive and trendy. Huang Weizhe, a 32-year-old designer and manager at Longfuji, concurs that the trend primarily attracts young enthusiasts. He uses social media to showcase ‘new Chinese style’ fashion, emphasizing its inclusive nature and freedom from strict rules, appealing to today’s youth.

Embracing the Surge of Contemporary Chinese Fashion                 

Samuel Gui Yang, known for drawing on Chinese heritage in his fashion collections, has seen increased interest from mainland China thanks to the ‘new Chinese style’ trend. Unlike mass produced mamianqun skirts, his brand focuses on subtle incorporation of Chinese heritage, appealing to a global audience by blending Shanghai and London influences.

For Samuel Gui Yang, the essence of ‘new Chinese style’ is encapsulated in Ang Lee’s 1994 film ‘Eat Drink Man Woman.’ Inspired by the movie’s portrayal of Chinese life and its blending of tradition with modernity, Yang draws design inspiration from 80s and 90s Asian fashion, showcased recently at Shanghai Fashion Week with innovative updates to classic qipao designs.

Ian Hylton, a long-time resident of China and designer, challenges the concept of ‘new Chinese style’ for his menswear label, which embraces traditional Chinese dress elements like silk mandarin collar shirts and Tang-style puffer jackets. He views these as enduring cultural expressions rather than passing trends, echoing his wife Min Liu’s initiative with Ms. Min to reintroduce Chinese-inspired fashion to the country.

When Ian Hylton first arrived in China in 2005 as creative director for Ports 1961, he noticed a prevalence of foreign faces in advertisements, reflecting a preference for foreign goods over local ones. Over the past decade, however, he observes a shift among young Chinese towards greater cultural pride and confidence, buoyed by a surge in domestic fashion consumption during the pandemic due to travel restrictions.

Momo, a Xiaohongshu user, critiques the commercialization behind the rise of ‘new Chinese style,’ which she views skeptically. Douyin, China’s TikTok equivalent, reported an 841% surge in sales of mamianqun skirts, priced at around 200 yuan each, on its e-commerce platform compared to the previous year. State broadcaster CCTV noted that Cao county in Shandong province, a major production hub for mamianqun, saw sales totaling 550 million yuan in the first two months of the year, driven by Lunar New Year demand.

Momo criticized some ‘new Chinese style’ products as poorly made but believes their design quality will enhance over time. Despite trends, she remains committed to educating her 33,000 followers on wearing traditional clothing in daily life, emphasizing its cultural significance as a means to foster global understanding.

During a recent episode of “Saturday Night Live,” Dua Lipa made her hosting debut and tackled the intriguing world of hip-hop rivalries. Lipa, taking on the role of Wanda Weems, a local culture critic, in a sketch on the fictional “Good Morning Greenville” show, provided a humorous yet insightful analysis of the ongoing feud between Drake and Kendrick Lamar.

Against a backdrop of photos of Drake and Kendrick Lamar connected by red yarn, Lipa dove into the latest diss tracks exchanged between the two rap giants. With her character’s quirky charm, Lipa dissected Lamar’s “Euphoria” and Drake’s “Push Ups” tracks, uncovering supposed revelations and adding a playful twist to the feud’s narrative.

The sketch served as a lighthearted nod to the recent spate of diss tracks between Drake and Lamar, reignited by Lamar’s pointed lines about Drake and J. Cole in Future and Metro Boomin’s track “Like That.” From questioning masculinity to witty references, the feud has captured the attention of hip-hop enthusiasts worldwide.

However, this feud didn’t arise out of nowhere. Drake and Lamar have a history of collaboration, including Lamar’s features on Drake’s “Buried Alive Interlude” and their joint effort on “Poetic Justice” in 2012. Yet tensions began brewing in 2013 when Lamar took shots at Drake and other rappers on Big Sean’s track “Control.”

Through Lipa’s portrayal of the eccentric culture critic, SNL offered a unique perspective on the intricacies of rap rivalries. The sketch highlighted not only the lyrical exchanges but also the cultural significance and narrative development inherent in these feuds.

As Lipa’s SNL appearance demonstrated, hip-hop rivalries serve as more than just entertainment—they reflect cultural dynamics and provoke meaningful conversations. With Maya Rudolph slated to host the next episode, SNL continues to serve as a platform for insightful cultural commentary, one sketch at a time.

At the iHeartRadio Music Awards in Los Angeles on Monday, where Beyoncé received the esteemed Innovator Award, the celebration of everything Beyoncé continued.

The “Texas Hold ‘Em” hitmaker was given the award by legendary musician Stevie Wonder, who also gave a rundown of her incredible achievements to date, including being the “first African-American woman to headline Coachella” and having a number one hit in each of the last four decades since the 1990s.

Not to mention, on Friday, she released her eighth studio album, “Cowboy Carter,” marking not only her unofficial foray into the world of country music but also her most anticipated professional moment to date.

When Queen B emerged to claim her prize, she addressed Wonder first, sporting a black leather motorcycle jacket and her now-famous cowboy hat.

“Isn’t She Beyoncé greeted the lovely” vocalist with, “Thank you for making a wave for all of us.” “I’m honored that you recognize me with this.”

She went on to say, “Whenever someone asks me who I could listen to for the rest of my life, it’s always you,” and she thanked Wonder for “playing the harmonica on ‘Jolene.'”

Continue reading Beyoncé’s stirring speech here:

“We appreciate iHeartRadio. You’ve called me an innovator tonight, and I appreciate that.

An innovative idea begins with a dream, but realizing that dream requires execution, which may be very difficult.

Seeing what others think is impossible is what it means to be an inventor. Being an inventor generally entails receiving criticism, which will frequently put your mental toughness to the test.

Being an innovator means putting your confidence in God to hold you up and lead you. I thus hope that all record labels, radio stations, and award shows will be more receptive to the happiness and freedom that arise from appreciating art without any preconceived ideas.

Being an innovator means putting your confidence in God to hold you up and lead you.

I thus hope that all record labels, radio stations, and award shows will be more receptive to the happiness and freedom that arise from appreciating art without any preconceived ideas.

This award is intended to be a tribute to all the innovators who have committed their lives and artistic endeavors to bring about change.

I am therefore grateful for your selflessness, strength of voice, and bravery.

We honor the many people who have defied labels, including Michael Jackson, Tina Turner, Prince, Stevie Wonder, Miss Tracy Chapman, Linda Martell, and Rosetta Tharpe.

We appreciate you carrying out your dream so that we might all follow.

And a huge thank you to my Parkwood crew; you guys work so hard, and I sincerely appreciate it.

I adore you, hubby, my best friend, and my rock. My three stunning children, are still my greatest blessing and source of inspiration.

Thank you so much, and have a lovely evening.

Tamannah Bhatia proves again – she is the fashion goddess.

Bollywood actresses who want to make a statement have always opted for all-black ensembles, and Tamannaah Bhatia—who is renowned for her avant-garde style—is no exception. The actress, who is active on social media, regularly offers fans style advice. She commanded attention with her striking appearance in her most recent outfit, which glittered in all-black.

Tamannaah Bhatia shared her glam look on Instagram and did everything in her power to win over her admirers’ hearts. The actress wrote, “No cape, just confidence!” alongside a slew of stunning photos that she shared on social media.

Fashion Goddess – slays in her new look

Rich satin fabric, a high neckline, a bodycon fit, statement shoulders, long sleeves, and a thigh slit with a crystal-embroidered brooch complemented her elegant black ensemble, which gave her an air of royalty.

The chic diva selected this gorgeous ensemble, which costs more than Rs 1 lakh, from the clothes brand David Koma’s shops.

She worked with celebrity fashion stylist Chandini Whabi to improve her overall look by adding a pair of crimson crystal and diamond-studded earrings as a simple touch to her ensemble. Tamannaah added thigh-high black pencil-heel boots with pointy toes to finish off her alluring appearance. Her gorgeous hair tastefully tied back into an updo, making sure her ensemble remained the main attraction.

Florian Hurel, a cosmetics artist, created a glamorous look for her. With kohl, nude eyeshadow, mascara-coated lashes, and highlighted contoured cheeks that accentuated her cheekbones, Tamannaah went for strong makeup that defined her features and expertly framed her eyes.

South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem is getting ready for her national close-up. How else to explain the contentious recent trip she took to Texas to “fix” her grin, which was captured on camera for a long time?

You know, the one where she extolled the virtues of Smile Texas, the aesthetic dentistry practice, on X, Facebook, and Instagram, claiming that it had fixed an issue she had long before sustained in an accident while riding her bike with her kids. The one that detailed her path to “a smile that I can be proud of and confident in,” as she put it.

Travelers United, a consumer advocacy group, is suing Ms. Noem for deceptive advertising since the outcome looked so much like a promotional infomercial. They allege Ms. Noem was essentially operating as a travel influencer.

aside from one particular item. There is much more to the tooth narrative than just teeth.

As the competition to be Donald J. Trump’s running mate intensifies, Ms. Noem’s new smile is a calculated move that is as much about psychology and politics as it is about looks.“It’s all about her appeal to a single audience,” Republican strategist Ron Bonjean remarked. The entire tooth incident nearly seems to have been staged for Trump to view. She is demonstrating to him her talent for front of the camera and her ability to carry the star power he desires when performing live beside him, all while adhering to the Trump universe’s expectations for women.

After all, Mr. Trump was the president who frequently referred to his employees—particularly those in the armed forces—as “central casting.” These days, he wears nearly all American flag colors. According to Richard Thompson Ford, a law professor at Stanford University and the author of “Dress Codes: How the Laws of Fashion Made History,” he enjoyed it when ladies “dress like women.” Ford added, “We know what that means to him.” Nearly all of the women in Trump’s inner circle—including his family and former press secretary Kayleigh McEnany—have profiles that reflect this.

In this sense, Ms. Noem’s dental upgrade is merely the latest in what seems to have been a years-long makeover that has turned her into, more than any other woman on Mr. Trump’s shortlist, what Cornell University professor of cinema and media studies Samantha N. Sheppard called “the perfect ornament for Trump.” Beyond her notoriety, her qualifications as a governor, and her MAGA platform, Ms. Sheppard noted that she represents a particular type of “Miss America-like white femininity,” which entails long lashes, flowing hair, and a dazzling smile. This type of femininity is also represented in Fox News anchors.

Larry Downing/Reuters

The artwork tells the story. Ms. Noem’s hairstyle during her initial bid for Congress in 2010 resembled a hybrid of “the Rachel,” the layered, straightened hairstyle made popular by Jennifer Aniston on “Friends,” and the power bob worn by Hillary Clinton and Nancy Pelosi. She chopped it off into a short style after winning reelection in 2012, which Ms. Sheppard likened to Kate Gosselin’s iconic haircut from “Jon & Kate Plus 8,” but a little more corporate.

Following Mr. Trump’s election and the growth of the MAGA movement, Ms. Noem changed her appearance. Her part went to the middle as her hair grew longer and longer, its disheveled waves kissed by the curling iron. She started to look like Donald Trump Jr.’s fiancée Kimberly Guilfoyle. Or a darker-haired version of Lara Trump, the new co-chair of the Republican National Committee and spouse of Eric Trump. From the khaki shirtdress she wore to CPAC in 2011 to the vibrant blue sheath she donned for this year’s State of the State address, even Ms. Noem’s wardrobe has altered.

The front cover image of her latest book, “No Going Back: The Truth on What’s Wrong,” is the best representation of her metamorphosis.

The Truth on What’s Wrong with Politics and How We Move America Forward,” which includes a picture of Ms. Noem sitting on her desk chair wearing a blazer and dress in front of the American flag. She has thick eyelashes, and glossed lips, and one hand appears to be playing with her wavy hair.

Mr. Bonjean remarked, “She practically looks like a member of the Trump family.” “A cousin, perhaps.”

Even though Ms. Noem’s Trumpification may just be a coincidence, she has demonstrated that she is aware of the implications and applications of costuming. This is evident in recent advertisements where she has assumed the roles of an electrician, a highway patrolman, and a dental hygienist to promote the message that “South Dakota is hiring.”

“It’s very strategic,” Mr. Ford declared. “Signaling that she’s going to be Trump’s kind of woman,” says Ms. Noem. And that she won’t challenge him at the same time.

The strategy of shaping political images finds its origins in the stylized femininity exhibited by figures like Phyllis Schlafly and Sarah Palin, where the allure of a powerful woman was softened by her adherence to traditional gender roles.

The recent dental procedure undertaken by Kristi Noem, coupled with her endorsement of the dentist responsible, adds an interesting layer to her public persona. It’s a move that seems to echo the approach of Donald Trump himself, who understands the value of leveraging power for personal gain. This suggests a shared understanding between the two.

While Governor Noem may present herself as a down-to-earth cowgirl, her actions align closely with Trump’s agenda, signaling her commitment to his vision and willingness to conform to his expectations. This was evident when she joined Trump at a rally in Ohio, where they donned matching MAGA hats. Trump’s remarks about her beauty, albeit veiled, underscored his recognition of her loyalty and alignment with his ideals.

In response, Noem could only respond with a smile, acknowledging the dynamics at play.

Experts claim that although Karl Marx sent scientist Charles Darwin a signed copy of “Das Kapital,” the book was mainly ignored and only partially read, offering an “amusing insight” into the relationship between the two thinkers.

The economist and philosopher Karl Marx examined the workings of the capitalist system and its propensity for self-destruction in his book “Das Kapital.”

The book was sent to Charles Darwin more than 150 years ago, and now that it has been restored, it will be on display at the renowned biologist’s home.

In June 1873, Marx delivered the book to Darwin, writing on it, “on the part of his sincere admirer, Karl Marx.”

But in a statement released on Thursday, English Heritage, the organization in charge of looking for Darwin’s home, Down House, stated that the gift “appears not to have been very well received.”

The statement continues, “With most of its pages remaining uncut, it seems Darwin gave up any attempt to read it,” and it also mentions that Darwin took nearly three months to write Marx a brief note of gratitude.

The gift copy of “Das Kapital” with Marx’ inscription top right. Cambridge University LibraryDarwin wrote, “I wish that I was more worthy to receive it, by understanding more of the deep and important subject of political Economy. I thank you for the honor which you have done for me by sending me your great work on Capital.”

Darwin, a prolific writer, is most known for his book “On the Origin of Species,” published in 1859 and which popularized the idea of evolution as a basic scientific theory.

According to Tessa Kilgarriff, English Heritage’s curator of collections and interiors, the two men were among the greatest thinkers of the late 1800s.

“Marx was clearly a disciple of Darwin’s theories, as evidenced by his personal gift and later work; however, the uncut pages (and absence of typical pencil marks) suggest Darwin was less enthralled with Marx’s writing – or quite possibly that his German was simply not up to scratch,” she stated in the statement.

Kilgarriff continued, “Down House’s copy of Das Kapital is a fantastic piece of social history, highlighting how Darwin’s theories filtered through Victorian society and transformed popular ideas of biology and nature, as well as providing us with an entertaining glimpse into the dynamics between these two well-known intellectuals.”

Despite the fact that Darwin was known to read German, Francis Darwin, Darwin’s son, said that his father had difficulty with the language, according to English Heritage.

Francis noted, “When reading a book after him, I was often struck at seeing, from the pencil-marks made each day where he left off, how little he could read at a time.”

Darwin’s lack of interest in political economy and these language barriers, according to English Heritage, could account for the book’s widespread unread status.

Following conservation work done by Cambridge University Library, the book’s owner, visitors to Down House will be able to see the tome on exhibit for the first time in five years.

In observance of Darwin’s 215th birthday on February 12, a study team electronically assembled his remarkable library.

A 300-page catalog that includes all 7,400 titles and 13,000 volumes that Darwin originally had was made available via the Darwin Online initiative. To encourage the public to read what Darwin read, the catalog contains 9,300 links to free online versions of the library’s contents.