As the world of fashion evolves, so too does its literature. From lookbooks to biographies, there’s no shortage of exciting books to explore in the fashion sector. If you’re a fashion enthusiast, the following must-reads will give you an insight into the industry’s hottest trends and essential designers. From timeless tomes to modern masterpieces, these fashion books will give you plenty to explore and read!
1. Fall into Fashion with These Must-Read Books
Discover the latest trends and learn the fundamentals of fashion with these must-read books:
1. True Style: The History and Principles of Classic Menswear – G. Bruce Boyer
This comprehensive deep-dive into the history of men’s fashion is a must-read for anyone looking to understand the evolution of menswear style. Written with authority and expertise, this book takes you through the development of men’s clothing over the years, from the traditional to the modern. Learn the ins and outs of timeless tailoring, and gain new confidence in classic looks and styles for any wardrobe.
2. Dressing the Man: Mastering the Art of Permanent Fashion – Alan Flusser
This classic book on men’s style covers everything from the fundamentals of clothing color, fit, and material to grooming, etiquette, and more. Top fashion stylist and author Alan Flusser packs this book full of information and advice you can apply to your wardrobe to look your best every time. Whether you’re trying to make a statement or dress for a certain event, this book will give you the confidence to get the look you want.
3. The Little Dictionary of Fashion – Christian Dior
This timeless guide to French style was penned by legendary fashion icon Christian Dior himself, and it remains a must-read for anyone wishing to understand the basics of fashion. Learn what makes a good fit, the ways to accessorize, and other key elements of stylish dress. This pocket-sized book may be short, but it’s filled with timeless advice that’s sure to be a hit with fashionistas everywhere.
4. The Great Extravaganza: From Empire Fashions to Art Deco – Caroline Evans and Alexandra King
This visually stunning book documents the evolution of fashion from the days of the Empress Eugenie to today’s modern style. It features incredible photographs, illustrations, and more to bring fashion history to life. Understand the basics of different fashion eras, their aesthetics, and what has endured for each. Get inspired by a world of dress and design, and level up your wardrobe.
5. Vulcan’s Hammer – Edward Enninful
This unique and eye-opening book documents the modern history of fashion through the lens of photographer Edward Enninful. It features breathtaking images that capture the fashion, beauty, and style of the culture, along with insights and interviews with some of the biggest names in the industry. Get lost in the vibrant world of modern fashion with this unforgettable work of art.
2. Style Choices with a Story: Behind the Scenes of Fashion Books
Fashion books are more than just a resource for finding style inspiration. They also represent a unique form of storytelling – one that conveys the creative vision of a fashion house or designer.
So let’s take a behind-the-scenes look at fashion books, and explore how some of the industry’s best are storytelling through their clothing choices.
Fabric:
The material is often the first thing we see in any fashion book. Whether it’s lightweight cotton or structured wool, the fabric used can set the tone of a collection and give insight into the overall message being conveyed. Luxurious fabrics, for example, can tell the story of opulence and sophistication, while matte fabrics can be used to communicate a simple and minimalistic look.
Details:
The details of a garment can also tell a story. Accessories like buckles, buttons, and zippers add an extra level of detail and can evoke different feelings. If the focus is on a more practical collection, these details are often discrete and subtle. But if the original goal is to make a high fashion statement, then bold and embellished details can add an extra layer of drama to the look.
Colors:
Colors come alive in fashion books and can tell many different stories. Bright hues can imply vibrancy and energy, while softer tones can send a more delicate and romantic message. Dark colors on the other hand often suggest sophistication and classic elegance.
Patterns:
When it comes to patterns,designers have a wealth of options at their disposal. Bold abstract patterns often convey creativity and uniqueness, while classic checkered or striped designs can add a timeless feel. As with colors, patterns can also evoke different emotions, such as joy or sadness, depending on the context of the collection.
Silhouettes:
The silhouette chosen can also tell a story. A-line dresses often imply femininity, while boxy shapes can send a message of androgyny. Slim-fitting silhouettes can even be used to showcase a more boyish charm.
Clearly, fashion books are powerful tools for telling stories. Through careful selection of fabrics, colors, patterns, silhouettes and details, a designer can create an entire narrative within a single collection. Each of these elements can be used to evoke different emotions, and when combined, they can be used to tell an engaging and dynamic story.
3. Culturally-Inspired Clothing: What We’re Reading Now
From Runway Mix: Are you looking for a way to update your wardrobe in a culturally inspired way? We scoured the best fashion blogs for the latest trends in cultural-inspired fashion. Here’s what we’ve been reading lately:
- The latest collections from top Japanese designers, like Kenzo, Issey Miyake, and Comme des Garçons.
- The bold, eye-catching streetwear look of South Korean label, Blends.
- The traditional African prints that have become a key element in modern fashion.
These culturally-inspired looks aren’t just on the runways. Fast fashion brands have taken to collaboration for their 2018 collections, partnering with indigenous artists on unique prints and designs. After all, clothing is as much of a form of expression as it is function.
For spring 2018, H&M partnered with influential Nigerian designer, Kenneth Ize, fusing traditional hand-weaved materials with modern silhouettes. While Tommy Hilfiger took up the challenge of reinterpreting Cuban fashion, creating a capsule collection centered around the Latin nation’s style and heritage.
We can’t forget about the athleisure trend. US brands like Puma and Adidas lead the charge, collaborating with Queens rapper, Big Sean, to create a capsule collection inspired by hiphop culture. We’ve also seen collections from Chinese designer Yajun and British streetwear brand, The Couture Club, featuring vivid art from street artists in Marseille.
Clothing is such an important part of how we express ourselves. It’s no wonder that fashion designers are turning their attention to cultural-inspired looks.
4. Ready to Revamp Your Wardrobe? The Latest Fashion Books are Here!
The dizzying world of fashion is full of dazzling trends and looks! If you’re eager to revamp your wardrobe, the latest fashion books are here to help.
- Fashion Journaling: How to Design Your Personal Style by Taylor Davies
- Fashion Reckoning: The Power of Style by Elle McClure
- The Stylege Squad: A Guide to Women’s Style Trends by Ashley Brown
- The Complete Guide to Dressing for Any Occasion by Elizabeth Dumont
- The Art of Dressing: A Guide to Selecting Fabulous Looks by Liz Robins
If you’re looking for new ideas on how to approach fashion, Fashion Journaling is a great resource. It’s packed with creative ways to define your personal style, from analyzing looks, to shopping for key pieces to leading runway trends, Davies gives you the tools to discover your own fashion signature.
For the trend-savvy fashion junkie, Fashion Reckoning will show you how to use fashion to assert your power and creative freedom. McClure’s book explores fashion history, takes you on a tour of different styles and touches on the political implications of fashion.
The Stylege Squad is the perfect guide for any woman looking for fashion advice. Brown’s book will help you gain an understanding of women’s fashion trends, from swimwear and lingerie to jeans and trench coats.
The Complete Guide to Dressing for Any Occasion will help you prepare for any event. Dumont’s collection of personal stories, fashion tips, and style advice helps you look your best in the boardroom, at dinner parties, and in everyday life.
The Art of Dressing is an invaluable resource for anyone looking to put together a great ensemble. With comprehensive advice and fabulous illustrations, Robins helps you find the right combination of pieces, colors, and textures to create an impactful look.
5. Dive Into Beauty, Style, and Creativity with These Hot Titles!
Reinvent Yourself With A Classic
Pride and Prejudice is one of the most iconic novels of all time. Its story of love, life, and beauty will captivate you and leave you inspired to create something new and beautiful in your own life. With its positive messages and timeless themes, Pride and Prejudice is sure to provide readers with a fresh perspective to remember and take with them into the world.
Discover New Worlds of Color
The Nightingale is a lyrical, breathtaking tale that transports you to the gardens and palaces of ancient China. With the vivid descriptions of the culture, the novel will take you to a faraway dream-like landscape. As you journey with the characters through their emotional journey, you’ll be transported to a place of beauty and wonder.
Explore The Deeper Wisdom of Life
The Alchemist takes readers on an inspiring spiritual journey. Rich in symbolism and wisdom, it forces us to look deeper into the meaning of our lives. Through the story of an unlikely adventurer, it shows us how we must follow our passions and embrace our dreams in order to live life to the fullest.
Grow with a Coming-of-Age Story
The Catcher in the Rye is a classic coming-of-age novel that captures the spirit of rebellious yet optimistic youth. It gives readers an insight to the emotions and thoughts of adolescence as it teaches readers lessons of truth, identity, and meaning.
Recharge with a Fun and Wholesome Read
The Fault in Our Stars is a beautiful story of love and hope. It tells the story of two cancer-stricken teens and their unforgettable journey with poignancy and humor. This eye-opening read will make you want to take better care of your own life, as it inspiringly gives readers a newfound appreciation of the gift of life.
Finding the perfect fashion books to read can ease the pressure of deciding what to wear in style. With these must-reads for fashion enthusiasts, you can make sure your closet—and your bookshelf—are full of the latest trends. Don’t forget to refresh your wardrobe with practical fashion advice from these timeless reads!
