The Book of Styling: An Insider's Guide to Creating Your Own Look - Softcover

Flaherty, Somer

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0982732244 ISBN 13: 9780982732243

Publisher: Zest Books, 2012

Synopsis

This guide explains the what’s, why’s, and how’s of styling; so whether you’re looking to update your wardrobe or curate your closet, this book has the answer. Accomplished stylist Somer Flaherty helps readers figure out what their look is (or ought to be), and how to tailor that look to their own particular body type. Also, for all of the future Rachel Zoe’s out there, Flaherty helps readers understand the skills that are necessary to style others, and to even turn styling into a real career. Additionally, the book includes:

• Color illustrations for all of the looks, body types, and style elements
• Sidebars about style through the decades and fashion icons
• Fashion activities to help readers put down the book and get to work
• Tips for a wide array of fashion emergencies

About this title

About the Author

Based in California, Somer Flaherty is a fashion stylist, journalism instructor, editor, and writer with more than a decade of experience in the fashion industry. Her work has appeared in national magazines such as Teen Vogue, luxury advertising campaigns, and in the wardrobes of private clients throughout the country.

Reviews

Gr 9 Up-Future stylists and fashionistas can pick up some good tips on dressing for body type, style, and shopping; however, a lot of the advice seems more appropriate for recent college graduates than for teens. Average high school students would probably not find the need for the recommended four dressy dresses, including two versions of the little black dress, three pairs of dress pants, or a tailored suit, appropriate for job interviews. Body types and the clothing that flatters each type are presented. "Case in Point" boxes explain how they work with their body type to play up their best features and encourage readers to re-create celebrity looks. Readers are counseled to stay within budget; experience the joys of thrift, consignment, and online shopping; and not to invest heavily in trendy items. The book is well organized. Flaherty encourages readers to learn from her but to find their own style. A worthy attempt to showcase models of normal body weight is negated by the use of listless illustrations of people who appear much older than the targeted audience. A final section on career options covers internships and paths to various styling careers. Although this book contains lots of good ideas and sound advice, the lack of stylish photos or models makes it suitable for serious fashion readers, not casual browsers or fans of fashion magazines. Purchase where the seriously fashion conscious gather to read and discuss.-Cindy Wall, Southington Library & Museum, CTα(c) Copyright 2011. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.

Are you a glam-girl dresser like J-Lo? Or is Boho more your style? Fashionistas and budding stylists—or those hoping to cultivate a “look”—will find all they need to know in this guide from expert Flaherty. One of the keys to owning your outfit is knowing your body type: hourglass, inverted triangle, rectangle, apple, or pear (while the sketch illustrations don’t help to distinguish between the five types, the text does). This book, geared entirely toward girls, also discusses color, complexion, and confidence. Once you’ve identified your body type and style, it’s time to “curate your closet” by assessing, pruning, and reorganizing—then, best of all, buying. The book ends with tips on styling others and how to parlay your love of fashion into a career. The illustrations throughout look like something you’d see on a designer’s sketch pad, and there are plenty of bright colors, but text and illustrations will need updating to stay au courant. There are many, many girls out there who are going to read this cover to cover, especially when they’ve finished this month’s Teen Vogue. Grades 8-12. --Ann Kelley

Edition details

• Publisher: Zest Books
• Publication date: 2012
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 0982732244
• ISBN 13: 9780982732243
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 160