Emily Spivack

This book was actually a lot of fun. Some of the contributors were famous, others not. It was so interesting to get a little slice of each person's life, through the lens of what a particular article of clothing they keep means to them. It's cool to think about the symbology of what we wear and how we present ourselves, and how our relationship to what we wear can affect that, and be affected by it.

I think I enjoy oral stories much more than short fiction. This a nicely culled collection of stories either written or told to the author by people talking about a piece of clothing and the story behind it. Each story includes a photograph of the item of clothing. Clearly part of a larger project and a website--some folks in reviews were disappointed to find the focus on designers, artists and performers rather than "normal" folk. I suspect this had more to do with the author/editor's show more ability to cull through and present only the best stories. show less

I loved this book! So many different voices, each telling us about an article of clothing that's extra-meaningful to them, and why.

The essays range from funny to nostalgic to sad, with a lot of nuances. All of the writing is excellent, and each tale is accompanied by an elegant photograph of the clothing piece discussed. This gives the book a very clean, yet immediate, tone.

The production values of the book itself live up to the elegant prose and photos. It's really a joy to read!

I am proud show more that my daughter is one of the authors therein, especially since I doubt I would have heard of this book without that connection, and it's really good.

Highly recommended if you like thoughtful, personal essays. show less

Everyone has a piece of clothing hanging in a closet or folded away in a drawer that has so much sentimental value, it is impossible to discard, despite the stains or holes. This clever idea of documenting the stories of such clothing began as a side project in 2010. For the book, the author pairs each short essay with a stark photograph of each item of clothing. Some of the essays are from famous fashion designers and chefs, others from non-celebrities, but all are fascinating. This is a show more quick read that I enjoyed while sitting outside on a sunny day, clad in my own worn sweatshirt, which is full of memories.

Kathleen K. / Marathon County Public Library
Find this book in our library catalog.

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