1 comments about Adobe Illustrator for Fashion Design.

1. Adobe Illustrator for Fashion Design is a necessary tool for anyone studying fashion design. I am currently working in the Fashion Industry for a major designer, and use all of the Illustrator techniques I've learned in this book on a daily basis. All of the concepts are well organized with easy-to-follow, step-by-step instructions. I love this book!

5 comments about Hip Knit Hats: 40 Fabulous Designs.

1. I agree with many of the other comments about the errors, and the fact that this may not be a book for beginning knitters. And fortunately, the first two hats I knit seem to be the ones without any errors in the directions.
   
   But as an experienced knitter who still has problems following patterns (just what KIND of "make one" did the designer mean??), I found the directions for the two hats I've knitted (VALERY, the one on the cover and DUNCAN) simple and easy to follow. I've made both hats several times. They knit up quickly, they look just as good as the photos in the book, and they fit beautifully. In fact, the first time I tried on my finished "Valery" hat, my daughter exclaimed, "It looks just like the hat in the book!" With these two hats, I found I could almost follow the pattern by looking at the photograph, they were so intuitive.
   
   After a long hiatus from knitting, I needed to make a hat for a friend. I searched high and low for weeks for hat patterns that were simple, quick and made beautiful hats. I was surprised at the dearth of easy-to-follow yet attractive patterns.
   
   This book was the only one that had several simple yet lovely hats, with no silly "things" on them, designs that don't rely on a bunch of faddish novelty yarns, yet with enough variations and color choices to keep me knitting and knitting and knitting. I've already made and given away four of the hats in the book, and every recipient has loved them.
   
   I loved the simple guide that showed me how to combine various weight yarns to get the gauges noted in the patterns.
   
   I loved the variations suggested, in yarns, colors, patterns. I love that the gauge was provided for each yarn, so I didn't have to track down a specific yarn to make a substitution.
   
   The "Duncan" hat is so simple, yet I can't wait to try the designer's suggestion to experiment with different patterns and textures on the brim.
   
   I admit I didn't like how the start of the hat looked with my usual two-strand cast-on--a bit too bulky to lie flat on top. I ended up unraveling that first row when I finished, and simply sewing it up with the yarn end. It looks fine.
   
   Again, perhaps not a beginner book. But a breath of fresh air for knitters with moderate skills who want something simple yet different jAND attractive.



2. Bought this for my wife, an ardent knitter, for Christmas. She says it is the finest book of hat patterns she has encountered. Recommended.



3. I realize that a 5 would only work if I went by the ONE pattern I've actually knit, which happened to be one of the error-free patterns. Due to the numerous errors seen on the page described here, I would give a 1 or 2 for the patterns themselves.
   
   But I totally give a 5 for the variety of patterns, the multiple pics she gives for each hat (one hat in two different colors can look sooo different!) and for the instructions on how to combine yarns to get the weight you need, felting instructions, face shape info, etc.
   
   So, a 3 will be it for me. It must be VERY frustrating for those who have made her hats and had serious errors to see so many ratings of 5. I'm glad I got this one at my local library. :)



4. There is a hat in this book for everyone in your life (I had several relatives thumb through and pick out the ones they wanted, and they all found one that made them say "wow, I love this hat"). It is full of a variety of patterns (all knit from the top down), from basic to fancy and fanciful. However, what really stands out are the creative ideas throughout the book to customize the hats even further. I love books that encourage you to develop your own style, and this book does.
   
   My only critiques are the number of printing errors (the author has posted errata at www.pondedge.com) and the lack of details in the instructions describing the methods of casting on. I would love to do the wrap method, but just can't figure out which end of the yarn goes where and what order to work the needles.
   
   This book, in terms of stylish variety and creative ideas, is one of my favorite knitting pattern books. The other one is Scarf Style (you can find some great scarves to go along with the hats!).



5. I'm a beginning knitter and also this is my first time using circular needles. I found the directions easy to follow and the photos were a great reference so I could see where I was in the pattern. I've tried about 2 so far and they've turned out great. The only thing I don't get is the wrap method. I would have liked more photos and instruction on that aspect.

5 comments about Subversive Seamster: Transform Thrift Store Threads into Street Couture.

1. This book is beyond bad. For those trying to save money by buying at thrift stores - save your money and don't buy this book! The "fashion" ideas, and that is a term used loosely, are horrible and all look badly home made. In some of the photos the edges aren't even finished correctly ( i.e. a bustier with uneven edge seams and threads hanging out)- and most are fashions that no one in their right style mind would wear. They are not radical and hip, they are messy and sad. The only idea that might prove helpful is how to create your own dress makers dummy - and this is a recycled idea.
   
   
   If you must look at this book, a trip to the local library and about 30 seconds is all you will need.



2. Making trash into worse trash
   
   Oh. My. God. Where to begin? Upgrading ordinary clothes is a hobby of mine and I purchased Subversive Seamster by mail hoping for fresh ideas. After I turned the first pages I realized that the real value of this book is entertainment. As each photograph reveals a new fashion atrocity you begin to merrily anticipate further sartorial horrors and you are not disappointed. Chest-flattening tops, skirts without proper hems, tucks that look like accidents, a shirt sleeve made into coin purse (who is THAT poor?), appliqués zigzagged with " medium stitch length and width" showing unraveling edges and other hobo projects. If you want to apply for food stamps wear one of these creations. It will help. I alternatively laughed and cringed. I still cannot decide which project wins the Palm of Ugliness: the bulging un-hemmed Peek-a-Bootylicious Skirt made of men's pants or the gaucho pants with applied flannel pajama legs. I also question the wisdom of sacrificing a classic leather vest to make a pair of earrings. I would no more want to wear such clothes than I would want to eat from a garbage container. If you are very poor, save your time and effort by wearing unaltered thrift store clothes, you won't look any worse.



3. Although I have only flicked through this book, I can see myself finding it pretty handy as a reference and for inspiration. Definately for people who do love to re-create op shop or their old clothes.



4. SUBVERSIVE SEAMSTER: TRANSFORM THRIFT STORE THREADS INTO STREET CULTURE as for any sewer who has patterns and methods down - and wants to move beyond them into the world of altering and enhancing existing offerings. Refashioning is covered with a host of tips and secrets to re-doing vests, purses, dresses and more, from a salsa skirt to a poncho, tops, and accessories. A 'must' for any collection catering to sewers.
   
   Diane C. Donovan
   California Bookwatch



5. I received this as a gift and was very pleasantly surprised! There are a lot of fun, inventive, and easy ideas in this book. After reading it, I wanted to go right out and go thrift store shopping! It's true what the other reviewer said: you are not going to be able to make your typical business casual wardrobe from this book, but there are several very cute projects that are more than appropriate for any casual wardrobe, such as the peasant-style blouse and the adorable cuffed shorts, with instructions for three different lengths. And I personally think the sports jersey top made into a skirt would be a fabulous way to show your team pride at a Super Bowl or World Cup party! the tank with the corset back is very wearable, and the refashioned silky tank is a great idea (though poorly represented in the accompanying photo).
   
   In general, if you eschew stores like Banana Republic and Ann Taylor in favor of more original looks, but don't want to spend the money/environmental resources on buying new from boutiques, and you have beginner sewing skills, then I can recommend this book.
   
   Caveat: although I have read the directions for many of the projects, and they seem quite easy to follow, I have not yet made any.

3 comments about Survey Of Historic Costume: A History Of Western Dress.

1. The book came in great condition! It was shipping fast, which is great because it was needed for a college class. I would definitely use them again for future purchases.



2. There are some real photos of paintings from the time periods, but also a lot of drawings of tiny cartoon people wearing time period clothing which are confusing. The author could have at least made the drawings bigger and drawn arrows naming each piece of the outfit, but under many pictures the caption just reads "women's attire" which leaves the student forced to read through the entire chapter and match up the cartoon character's garments to the clothing descriptions. It takes longer to learn and study for tests and is often confusing. I wouldn't reccomend this book! If your costume teacher has a PHD please let them know it is their duty to write a new history of costume book!!!



3. This book is perfect for anyone who wants to become familiar with what people have worn through history of clothes.
   I loved it.

4 comments about 99 Ways to Cut, Sew, Tie & Rock Your Scarf.

1. I live in Switzerland, I'm beyond middle age, and have a collection of scarves from grandmothers, great aunts, travels and many many gifts. I found not only wonderful ways to turn old, funky, well worn favorites into new uses, but also, got inspired to create other new things. My favorites are the necklaces, headdresses, and the caftan type ones. Thanks again Compai



2. I'm not a real crafty person, so in order for a do-it-yourself guide to work for me, it has to be pretty easy to understand. 99 Way to Cut, Sew, Tie & Rock Your Scarf fit that bill. With its illustrated patterns, step by step instructions and projects spanning from simple to more extensive, this book is great for the novice as well as the more experienced crafter.
   
   If you are interested in turning your long forgotten scarves into unique accessories, you will want this book.



3. i like it!
   it amazes me how these divas will take nothing and turn it into something FLYY!
   
   i wonder what more do they have up their sleeves that i've never pondered about!



4. This is the third book in the series...will there be more?! I love it. I got my copy yesterday and it is amazing from cover to cover. My scarves tend to collect on the doorknob in my bathroom, so it is the best book, in my opinion, to help me figure out how to make something beautiful and useful out of all those gorgeous scarves! Thank you Compai...again!!!

5 comments about Ink: The Not-Just-Skin-Deep Guide to Getting a Tattoo.

1. This is a good place to start before getting a tattoo. We get a lot of people in our shop who just come in and basically point at something in a book. It's nice to know some history and symbolism before you place it on yourself for good. The author has good insights and a few illustrations. This is not a picture book.



2. I was a bit skeptical at a book with this type of format and approach but it was amazingly well done. It covered many of the questions I knew to ask and didn't know what the best answer was as well as the questions and answers I had yet to even consider. A very very useful guide to the entire process behind getting a tattoo and one I'd recommend to everyone who wants to feel fully informed before making such a permanent decision.



3. This book is fun and easy to read. I would recommend anyone who has infinite questions about getting a tattoo to read this book first. It contains rich information on about everything tattoo related. Did this book definitely help me make a decision? Oh yah!



4. Very informative and easy to read book. Her advice matched my own tattoo experience exactly. I had a great tattoo experience but wish I had read her book before making my first tattoo appointment.



5. Honestly, for people like me, who have thought about a tattoo for years, not seriusly enough to do it, but not with so little importance that the idea is forgoten fast, this is a great start. If you have had many doubts about tattoos in general, this is a good start, and an interesting reading anyway.

5 comments about Sneakers: The Complete Collectors' Guide.

1. Bought this for my boyfriend (who is a sneakerhead) and he loves it. High quality print, bright pages, covers many of the classic brands and at an excellent price - best price I've seen for this book and I've looked for it elsewhere. Definetly recommended.



2. This is a great compilation of the shoes that make up the ever expanding sneaker culture. But it is by no means the COMPLETE guide. Lots of great shoes that didn't make it into the book and some that should have been left out. All in all, it should definitley be in your collection.



3. A great look at most of the shoes in each of the major companies respective ranges. While the descriptions and info on the shoes are pretty scant, the pictures more than make up for that. The best part of running through this book is getting hit with the nostalgia that comes with seeing so many products from the not-so-distant past. A nice modern coffee table (or ottoman, I suppose) book. Air Max 1s are the best shoes ever.



4. This book is great to look at even if you're not into sneakers. Beautifully presented design and layout, and great history details. A good oversight of all the significant brands and their best creations.



5. this book is awesome is very informative, and if you know anything about the hip hop era then this book should be added to a persons collections.

5 comments about What You Wear Can Change Your Life.

1. I am a huge fan of WNTW and I am really dissapointed in this book. Trinny and Susannah are the only models and the advice isn't very realistic. The only thing that makes this (maybe) worth the money is the color chapter which shows which colors go with which.
   
   I was slightly offended by the constant knocking of black and wearing black with color. Who doesn't? Maybe in England they don't.
   
   If you want help matching things (but not with black) buy this. If not, try Stacy London and Clinton Kelly's book or the Lucky fashion manual. Much more helpful tips and useful info.



2. How sad am I to see Amazon may not continue carrying this book. So very sad.
   
   I got this after a friend raved about the color chart in it. I thought there was just one chart. In fact, there is one for every color-and the variations within it. Don't know what to pair with those bubblegum pink pants you bought? Turn to page 86 and see that purple, orange and forest green all can be successfully combined with them. Pistachio green? See page 72. And so on for pretty much everything in your wardrobe OR for items that you've thought of buying but weren't sure what to pair them with. Plus the authors themselves take turns posing in every color family and give some great suggestions. There's literally something you'll use on every page.
   
   But there's more. Find out what type of shoes, belts and jewelry work best for you, how to store clothes and accessories (I'm definitely taking their advice on necklaces and scarves), tips on all steps in the makeup process (and sorry ladies, but I'm not throwing out my bronzer) and how to hide all manners of figure flaws. For the flaws segment, the authors themselves once again bravely model so it's impossible to take offense. Throughout, Trinny and Susannah display more wit, charm and warmth than you might expect from a fasion how-to book. I can't emphasize enough how helpful they've been. I have the book from the American version of the show as well and while it too is very helpful, this one is my favorite.
   
   The only complaint is some of the information might be a bit too geared towards women with fair skin and hair (as both the writers have.) The friend who recommended it to me is African-American and while she swears by the color charts, she says some of the advice simply doesn't work for her. Since the authors are the only models provided, this can be limiting if you are trying to imagine a look on darker skin and/or hair. So do keep that in mind. (Having said that, my friend still loves the book)



3. This book was a great help in helping me update my wardrobe to look better in what I wear.



4. Very Clear and has great insight on what you should be wearing.



5. This book doesn't tell you what to wear. It tells you what not to wear and gives you the confidence to realize what you should be wearing. I expected a clear cut, "if your body is this shape, this size and you're this height you look good in, such and such and such and such" but no, it just gives you ideas not specific wardrobe assignments. And yes, what you wear CAN change your life, for the good or for the bad don't forget it goes both ways.

1 comments about Visual Merchandising: Windows and In-Store Displays for Retail.

1. At last a book that that not only explains the concept of visual merchandising, but also demonstrates how to implement the various techniques that help promote retail sales.
   
   The book is divided in to easy to read chapters from window displays to in-store layouts and even covers a brief history of window displays. This book is a MUST for retailers, it covers areas of visual merchandising that are often forgotten- ambience, signage, window props, colour and mannequins.
   
   I found the section on store design particularly interesting.
   
   From fashion to home the book has been clearly well researched.
   
   The generous amount of images have been sourced from the worlds influential retailers (Japan, Paris, Hong Kong, USA and UK to name a few) and the illustrations are a useful tool to help explain the principles of visual merchandising.

5 comments about Shoes: What Every Woman Should Know.

1. It is said that a woman cannot have enough shoes or handbags. I heartily agree.
   
   This is a wonderful book that should prove of interest to almost all women and men too! Packed with informative and colorful illustrations, we are taken on a journey detailing the history of footwear from Ancient Egypt to the present day. And what an interesting journey it is.
   
   There is something for every shoe afficionado in this small but fun book. Perhaps the biggest lesson to be learned here is that if one waits long enough, any style of footwear will once again become popular and a "must have" piece of a woman's wardrobe.
   
   Which reminds me, a local shoe store is having a sale this weekend....



2. LOVE the fact that there is pop culture included. More content than most. I love the section on Sex and the City!



3. What is it about women and shoes??? Stephanie Pedersen's "Shoes: What Every Woman Should Know" is an awesome history of shoess from past to present. The photos are delicious, and I enjoyed reading about the history of shoes.
   
   One of my favorite sections in the book was "Red Shoes", which was all about the sexual power of scarlet pumps. The adage "red shoes, no knickers may or may not be true, but I ain't tellin'!
   
   If you have more than two pairs of shoes in your closet, you'll love this book!
   
   Carla
   www.CarlaLynneHall.com



4. I am enjoying Shoes: What Every Woman Should Know so much that I have decided to order a few copies for my more stylish girlfriends as a Christmas gift. The book effectively describes how a woman's image is often shaped by her own shoes. Shoes described range from sexy -- I love the chapter on the stiletto -- to elegant and graceful, such as the chapter on shoes of the silver screen in the 40s.
   
   The author, Stephanie Pedersen explains how shoes have been worn by women as a symbol of sensuality. Not only did I learn about the history of shoes from this stylish and reasonably priced book, but I learned about fashion, design and culture. Pedersen's artful descriptions coupled with the colorful images have really inspired me to consider my own shoe collection and what is says about me. After reading this book, I want to go on a little shoe shopping spree to add a few pairs to my own collection -- the book heps one to understand what shoes can say about one's image.
   
   Now that shoes from the 20s, 30s and 40s are making a comeback in modern fashion, it is even more fun and interesting to read about how those styles were influenced by the trends, attitudes, movie stars and even dances of those decades. My favorite sections are "1923: The Charleston," "1939: Red Shoes," from the chapter "The Jazz Years." Also, "Shoes of the Silver Screen" from the Chapter on the Hollywood Years, and the section on Sex and the City from the Chapter, "The Designer Years."
   
   The first chapter of the book is excellent, and fills you in on the fascinating history of shoes, with interesting bits of information such as the cultural attitudes in Asia and fashion trends in the late Middle ages, when Florence was the fashion capital of the world.
   
   This is a book you will read again and again, and want to keep handy to refer to often to inspire you to consider shoes as a part of your own style, and certainly to show to all your friends. You will learn something about yourself from this book because it helps you to understand what your shoes say about you! Whatever image you want to convey from sexy to confident, graceful to elegant - this book will help you understand which shoe styles could help you make the precise statement you want about yourself and your sense of style and originality!



5. You don't have to be Carrie Bradshaw to love this little book, beautiful and fascinating if you love shoes this book will give you lots of delightful insights into the way shoes have evolved. Lovely photographs and the writing is delicious. Make a wonderful stocking stuffer for the shoe-shopper in your life.