The little black book of style (edition 2009)

I liked this book. I agree with the criticisms about her fur stance, but I think that a lot of the advice in there is pretty sound. ( )

I bought this book on Saturday (3/26/11) and finished it Sunday (3/27/11). It's very easy to get through. There are plenty of illustrations by Ruben Toledo to elucidate Ms. Garcia's points. I'm also reading "The Look Book" by Ms. Garcia, in which she expands upon some of the themes in this small book, such as what to wear for different occasions, and what's appropriate and what isn't in different situations. Like Tim Gunn's "Guide to Quality, Taste and Style," she has a list of fashion-oriented films in the appendix so you can get an idea of different styles through the decades, and how different stars were dressed for their films. There's also a Q&A with various designers, where she asks them different questions, but always ends with the question of who or what inspires them and who is the most stylish woman they know. There's also the ubiquitous list of items every woman should have in her wardrobe, and a list of 10 things you must know.

Like I said, it's a very easy, pleasant read. My advice is to not spend too much on the book, because while it is handy, it's not what I consider comprehensive. It's more like a basic overview. The list price for the hardcover I bought is $19.99. I got it for half that with a coupon and my Borders discount card. If you can get it from the library, even better. My advice is to save your money for the really big fashion books, and maybe a subscription to a magazine or two. MissusSmartyPants.com is an excellent resource, too. ( )

THANK YOU NINA GARCIA!!! All my life I felt like a fashion faux pas, like I just couldn't quite get it right. I picked this book up in the middle of an identity crisis looking for help getting it right. For something to help me feel like I was finally "put together." Imagine my surprise when page after page I was faced with descriptions of MYSELF, of the ways I already dressed. Talk about a revelation!

If you've ever felt like I did, or just wish you could change things up a little this book is a fabulous guidepost. ( )