This book was just okay, not as good as I had hoped it to be. There was a lot brand name/label dropping. Do all women really need to own a pair of Jimmy Choos? I was expecting a more generic list, like every woman needs to own a pair of eff-me pumps. I'm disappointed. ( )

A handy guide to the 100 pieces every woman should have in her wardrobe (or handbag). This list not only includes apparel, but also accessories, shoes, the Crackberry, the iPod, sunglasses, various kinds of hats, makeup, skincare, lingerie, and prints, patterns and colors to include in planning your style. Ms. Garcia provides resources where one can find the items she mentions, at both designer and budget price points. She recommends spending the money for a really good quality item that's going to last you a long time and remain current, and saving on trendier items or items that are not meant to last that long.

The book is divided up by letters of the alphabet, generally three at a time. Once again, as is the case with all Ms. Garcia's books, the lavish illustrations were done by Ruben Toledo, and they are fabulous. ( )

In The One Hundred, fashion expert, Nina Garcia outlines 100 accessories that she deems timeless and classic assets to any woman's wardrobe. The pieces are listed and described in alphabetical order; beginning with A for the A-line dress and ending with Z for the zippered hoodie. Along with explanations as to why the pieces are included in her 100 list, Garcia gives fun trivia and historical facts regarding some of the items. Did you know, for example, that Ray-Ban Aviator sunglasses were first designed in 1936 or that the cardigan was named after the seventh Earl of Cardigan in 1874? Garcia also gives helpful advice on selecting items, where to find them, and how to wear them (not all 100 include this information). Another enjoyable addition to the book are quotes, interspersed throughout, such as this one by Helena Rubinstein: There are no ugly women, just lazy ones (for some reason, I find that comforting). For those who fancy "seeing" what the author is describing, The One Hundred includes illustrations of the various fashions mentioned. Personally, I would have preferred photographs. While I did not agree with all of the choices on Garcia's top 100 list, I did find useful information regarding classic pieces as well as practical fashion tips. Recommended for anyone interested in fashion and/or fashion trivia. ( )

Adorable illustrations. A straightforward guide to a contemporary, but not too trendy, wardrobe. ( )

Okay, I admit that I am not a Fashionista. I live in a rural area and wear a uniform to work, so the chic part of my wardrobe is slim. But I would love to improve in that area (I keep watching What Not to Wear, hoping something will sink in) and this book is a great guide.

There are quite a few items on this list of 100 that I actually own, surprisingly. Little Black Dress, Wayfarer sunglasses (so glad to learn that those are classic, I've been wearing them since college), Ballet Flats, Cable-Knit sweater, iPod (!), Jeans (of course). L.L. Bean Tote Bag...I have several! Nice to know that I am not as far out of the fashion loop as I thought!

Some entries I will never have, I don't need an evening dress and will never spend the amount of money that will buy a car on an "investment bag." And some don't seem fashionable to me at all. White jeans, do people really wear those? And a Caftan. Really? Didn't think those were ever actually an accepted style. Outside of your own home, that is. But what do I know?

Those examples aside, this is a fun book. There are little boxes throughout with the history of different pieces and "fun facts," too. The brilliant illustrations by Ruben Toledo really make the book. No matter what your level of style, you are sure to find something that you already own listed and it will help you add the essential pieces you might be missing. ( )