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| Have you ever seen a closet like this in real life? Source. |
I have read dozens of fashion and style books, and have two shelves of them. There’s a couple of provocative ideas in each book, nothing life-changing, but a few tidbits to store away. Other people’s ideas (and blogs) do inspire me.
One of my books promoted an exercise I’ve enjoyed over the years: Just free-associate words you “like” and “dislike” when it comes to clothing and accessories. Don’t think too hard, simply go with it. I do this every couple of years, to see how/if my tastes are changing.
On the current “Like” list:
Masculine/feminine mixes
Mixed textures
Drapey, flowy
Waist-defining
Clean lines
Black and navy
Faux fur and faux leather
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| This ticks my boxes – drapey and flowy, easy-going. |
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| Some of my likes: faux leather, waist-defining, mixed textures, lots of flow in the skirt. |
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| Menswear tuxedo trousers and a feminine blouse. Love it. |
Current “Dislikes” (mine, but maybe not yours):
Cutesy or frilly
Buttoned-down/staid
Business suits and high heels
Formal/dressy
Cluttered
Bare
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| Very nice, but not for me, in my current life. |
Then, for even more fun, narrow down the “Like” list to just three or four things. This creates a kind of “style statement” and helps me with my shopping. My statement would be: “I like clean lines, with some textural interest, and a mix of masculine and feminine elements.” I take a pass on any clothing or accessories that are very conservative, or very frou-frou.
Here are the best style books I’ve read or re-read in the past six months. I’d love to hear your recommendations, if you like this genre.
- Parisian Chic, Ines de la Fressange. I know, “French chic” has been worked to tatters, but Ines gives an airy, good-hearted round-up of classic chic.
- Eccentric Glamour, Simon Doonan. He’s the creative director at Barney’s NY, and his writing is witty, deeply opinionated, and fun.
- Simple Isn’t Easy, Olivia Goldsmith and Amy Fine Collins. This 1995 book never sounds dated to me and I read it once a year. It’s harder to find, but worth the search.
- Not fashion, but: It’s All Too Much, Peter Walsh. I am always on my mission to de-clutter and live simply. This book has good advice.
Stay fabulous,
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