5 comments about Frederic Fekkai: A Year of Style.

1. 
   This is a lifestyle book, referencing topics such as makeup, hair, style, food, spa, etc. Timeless advice with a French perspective. This book is set up according to month, with daily tips/ideas listed in the sidebar. Gorgeous pics & the layout is very visually appealing. Makeup looks, such as the "natural face" or the "confident face" include pictures and basic instructions but are not step-by step detailed (which also means no diagrams). Makeup (and all other advice) leans toward the super simple. No specific brand-name product recs. Obviously, as this is Frederic Fekkai's book there are a lot of hair related topics (including hair cuts, color, styling, & care).
   This is one of my favorite books on beauty. I've owned it for years & reach for it every few months just because of the classic advice & beautiful pictures



2. Small tid bits of information on a daily basis. Love how it is broken down by months and days. Simple advice. Glad I own this book.



3. This book is absolutely beautiful, both the pictures and the text are lovely, making it a great coffee table book. It is also filled with wonderful advice on beauty and life. I love all of Frederic Fekkai's products and was very impressed that he does not use this book to advertise his products, like so many of the beauty books out there. I have read a lot of beauty books and this is by far my favorite!



4. I liked this book a lot. It has many good beauty tips and a great ambiance with beautiful pictures. Frankly though, at times, I found Frederic a little stuffy and ridged for my taste. Also, as another reader here mentioned, some of the suggestions might be a little impractical for someone who can't afford pedicures and facials every week. Overall, I think it's a good investment and I would totally reccomend it for anyone who wants a beauty and style makeover and who wants good, basic beauty information. I think my mom would love this book!



5. this is the best style/beauty/life book ive ever seen. its my life manual. When you read it, it just makes you want to live a simple, stylish, delicious life. not only does it give great beauty/style tips, but its also a great lifestyle book. i love its recipes, its tips for being a great host or hostess, its gift giving tips, it encourages you to write letters instead of email. he also has a little tip for each day of the year. one of my favorites is to paint at least one wall in your room a great red color, becuase red makes you feel more beautiful when you wake up. i plan on painting one wall in my room red. One part i frequently read is the part about taking a trip in april, he talks about going to St. Barths, i think it was. just hearing him talk about what to pack and what to do makes me want to go on a vacation to cleanse and relax the spirit. i read his tips on applying makeup, figured out that i was applying cocnealer wrong, started using his tips and saw much more flawless looking makeup. every single one of his tips is amazing. he promotes simple, beautiful style with great accessories, and savory every little part of life. this book feels uncluttered, simple, stylish. i HIGHLY HIGHLY HIGHLY reccomend this book.

1 comments about Marimekko: Fabrics, Fashion, Architecture (Bard Graduate Centre for Studies in the Decorative Arts, Design & Culture).

1. I just saw the last weekend of this show in New York at the Bard Center and it was inspired, to say the least. The book is the next best thing to being there if you are a Marimekko fan. It is a more thorough look at the company than the older title "marimekko phenomenon". The editor of this book, Marianne Aav (also the show's curator) was responsible for the 1998 show/book from the Bard Center on Finnish Modern Design. Marimekko's brave colors, shapes, and graphics are made more powerful, in my mind, by the fact that the final result appears so simple. While I mourn the lack of this in much of today's clothing/textile design, I think that the renewed excitement about Marimekko, and design in general, indicates that this is changing. There is a lot of exciting material coming out of Scandanavia and Finland by young designers right now, but Marimekko's influence on modern design cannot be underestimated. Their vision ranged beyond textiles into architecture as well, which the book illustrates. This exhibit & accompanying book have done a fine job at giving credit where it's due.

5 comments about (un)Fashion.

1. I debated about buying this book as I couldn't think WHY I wanted it, but am delighted that I did. I like it so much that I bought a second copy to give a friend. Unlike other reviewers, I'm far less clear about why I like it and what I like about it, but I do know that it is a pleasure to look through it. Who would like this book? I am hesitant to guess. If you like outsider art, unique design, clothes that are unusual, to imagine and use your creative brain, then I suspect you'll find it a fun and inspiring book. If you are conservative in your mind and heart, you'll be bewildered by it. Or, maybe you'll get the jolt you need to see more in the world than you thought was there.



2. Are there some days when you want a book in your hand but you don't feel like reading? Here's a great book to have around for just such an occasion, "(un)fashion" by Tibor + Maira Kalman. Wow, wow and wow! There's nothing around (to my knowledge) like this little jewel, 9" x 6", I'm not sure how many pages,they aren't numbered,of nothing but
   photographs, no text (there is an index to each photo in the back of the book). Not to say that there aren't thousands and thousands of books of photography out there but this one is just different. It is the most spectacular look at how men and women (and a wonderful leaping dog in a gas mask and green plastic coat) from all over the planet choose to adorn themselves both in and out of the social norm. There are images of every kind of painted, pierced, tattooed, masked, beaded, wrapped,unwrapped, turbaned, swathed and nearly naked human being from every corner of the planet. And some really great ideas for tin cans if you are on a tight budget. What a joy and revelation to flip through this book at a leisurely pace marvelling at what can be achieved by imagination and necessity. This book should be seen by anyone who designs, manufactures or wears clothing. It's also useful for those days when you need to wear something special but can't decide quite what. It will give you all the courage you need to go out into the world looking like..........well.... your own special self. Highly recommended.



3. Wild, witty, inspirational look at the global village. The boys who share a pair of shoes, the beautiful men with their umbrellas, baskets as rain hats,Things balanced on heads. Everyday looks so extraordinary!



4. While he was alive Tibor Kalman spent his design career showing that one could find "high art" in the everyday world. (un) Fashion is a wonderful tribute to the life of Mr. Kalman (it can be assume that the driving force behind the book is Maira who is a very talented artist in her own right).

   The book has several catwalks of a wide range of people from every corner the planet. Each chapter features a traditional or (un)traditional fashion theme like body art, accessories, tribes, dressed to kill and (un)mentionables. Sometimes a featured photo can make a political statement while others show a slight touch of humor, making for entertaining page turning.

   While this book isn't your typical "oversized coffee table" the production and presentation show a respect for quality. Unlike your average overpriced collection of pretty pictures this book will make you think, which is rather novel for a book of so few words. (un)Fashion is the sort of book which you will want to share with friends and family and would be a great conversation starter for any social gathering.




5. This book is incredible. It's like being a child again and walking around the world and seeing 500 different people, with 500 different cultures and ways of expressing ideas. It's like having the eyes of a 5 year old and asking the question over and over..."What? and Why?" This book is playful discovery. Just imagine opening a book with no introduction, no words...only photos of people around the world - what they wear, what they're doing and how they do it. But like a child you have no idea, no clues or anything. These photos begin to speak for themselves. You don't have the advantage (or disadvantage) of having a writer attach prejudices or judgements to these photos - you are left to explore your own words, prejudices and thoughts. You not only learn things about people...but you learn a lot about yourself and your pre-conceptions about other folks.

   For those of you who are Tibor fans...Maira has a very touching write up about her late husband and why he initiated this book.

5 comments about English Women's Clothing in the Nineteenth Century: A Comprehensive Guide with 1,117 Illustrations.

1. This book covers costume by detailing each decade of the nineteenth century. You'll see examples of dresses, hats, fichus, mantles (jackets), trimmings, and undergarments. If you need very specific detailing of undergarments or sewing techniques, this book is general in nature and doesn't always give examples of every part of a woman's attire for each decade. Some decades emphasize particular parts of a woman's dress. But, in each decade, you'll see examples of the silhouette and popular dress styles. You can also find the contemporary price of yardage or accessories like stockings or gloves.
   
   In short, this is a handy reference, particularly when you have a quick question or if you want to see the difference in style from the 1840's versus the 1860's. It's great for me as a historical romance writer because I can quickly get a sense of the costume and layers of the garments. My only issue is that there is not enough detail about the intricacies of women's undergarments in the nineteenth century. There are illustrations of bustles and crinolines and corsets, but during the Victorian period, there were so many layers to women's underclothes that it can be confusing as a writer to remember all of the details.
   
   So, I would say that this book is a terrific place to start historical research because it explains each type of garment rather than just shows pictures or illustrations as some historical costume books do. But, if you need to research a particular undergarment or accessory, you may wish to supplement this book with other resources to get the finer details.



2. While this book was originally published in the 1930's, it has stood the test of time to become a definitive reference on the subject of 19th-century women's fashion, from the beginning of the Napoleonic/Regency era right into the early years of the Edwardian period. The text is exhaustive, delving into the smallest details (which can sometimes be the most important) of every feature of feminine costume from year to year, and features extensive sidebars on such things as underclothes and headgear. Since I run a website devoted to glove fashion and history, I particularly appreciated the attention given to gloves (which were so much a key - indeed, mandatory - accessory of women's clothing throughout the century that women would often even go to bed wearing gloves!). The hundreds of illustrations are a mix of first-class original work and authentic period illustrations. Since this is a reprint, there are no color illustrations (which are mentioned in the text), but this is a minor flaw. Anyone who has any interest at all in 19th-century women's clothing needs to make this book a basic part of their reference library.



3. I bought this book a few years ago and I found it very helpful. The information is presented in an interesting way.
   
   The photographs are period black and white photographs. Color photography did not exist at the time the photos were taken.
   
   The black and white drawings are detailed and beautiful.



4. This is an excellent book to give an accurate picture of clothing worn in the 19th century for a variety of occasions. Also very useful is the information on fabrics used, hat styles, hairstyles, etc. Easy to find the information for different decades. This is an excellent book for individuals trying to create authentic reproduction Victorian fashions.



5. I am not a costumer. I am simply a person who is interested in 19th century British history. This book is a fabulous reference and definitely worth the $20 I paid for it.

   I was disappointed at the lack of color. The photographs (recent ones only, of course) and fashion plates were in black and white.

   I would definitely recommend this to anyone interested in women's 19th century British fashion.

5 comments about Ancient Egyptian Costumes Paper Dolls (History of Costume).

1. The drawings and costumes are exquisite, like most of Tom Tierny books are. The explanation of each type of costume is well-done and easy to understand. My only exception to the product is the near nudity--tastefully done and, I'm sure, just done to show authenticity, but it may be something to consider if you are buying this for a child. This particular book has a lot of the near nudity, but I guess that was ancient Egypt for you.



2. I can't believe no other reviewer has mentioned that the girl paperdoll is topless! In a couple of the costumes, she has nothing on top (sure it's covered by props, but not well) and since when do paperdolls have DD cups? I got this for my daughter for Christmas, but there's NO WAY I would ever let her play with this type of paperdoll. Is it too hard to actually make something that's appropriate for children? Definitely not G rated IMO!



3. I purchased these to "decorate" an ancient Egypt report for my daughter. The artwork is beautiful but I did have to censure a few of the outfits (not quiet suitable for elementary school).



4. We used this book of paper dolls as inspiration for dance costuming representing Ancient Egypt in a presentation at our local zoo's fundraiser "Caravan through Ancient Egypt". Beautiful paper dolls and costumes...excellent quality!



5. Amazing, two dolls, a dozen or more plates of beautifully draw clothing, how can you go wrong? If you love egypt, this is the paperdoll book for you.

5 comments about The Bayeux Tapestry.

1. we were in Bayeux in January, 2008, to see the tapestry and had looked for a book for a souvenir. we waited to get back to the states and this was perfect. it has beautiful pictures and lots of information about the source of the tapestry. we were very pleased.



2. The stitching is easy to see, the colors look good, the book looks good on a shelf (although it is a tall book because of the large pictures); it is all around everything the needleworker needs in a reference at an amazingly good price. With large color photos of the entire tapestry it is possible to recreate any part of it. The tapestry is also an interesting historical record of the time period from hairstyle, costume, and eating to warfare and death (note the dismembered body parts). I especially like the depiction of Haley's comet.



3. The Bayeaux Tapestry is a gorgeous work of art that has great historical importance. This book does it full justice. The first section is simply the tapestry itself, with a pullout section of brief explanations of each scene. This allows you to look at the work itself and appreciate its beauty and craftsmanship and to form your own opinions and interpretations. (By the way, the photographs are so good you think you can reach into the page and feel the stitching.)
   
   Following this are translations of the Latin inscriptions, further explanations of the story and explorations of the artistic and historic significance of the tapestry. The author's language gets a bit technical in the latter sections, but with the help of a basic dictionary are easy to understand. Even without looking up the scholarly words, one can appreciate what the author is saying.
   
   I highly recommend this book. More than worth the price.



4. Perhaps the most famous tapestry of the western world, the 1000 year old, 230 feet long, Bayeux Tapestry is housed in a museum in Bayeux, Normandy. Embroidered in brightly colored wools, the Bayeux Tapestry portrays the complete story of the invasion of England by William of Normandy which was hallmarked by the Norman victory over the Anglo-Saxon English under King Harold at the Battle of Hastings in 1066. Now in a new edition, the complete tapestry is reproduced in full color over 146 pages. Captions on a fold-out page allow for easy reference, while a second black & white reproduction offers detailed accompanying commentary. Perfect as a Memorial Fund Acquisition selection, no college or community library collection can be considered complete without the inclusion of David M. Wilson's The Bayeux Tapestry from Thames & Hudson.



5. This is indeed a faithful reprint of Wilson's superb 1985 survey of the Bayeux Tapestry. (The previous reviewer mistook his numbers. The original book was 13.6 inches, reproducing the tapestry at about 55% scale. 13.6 inches IS 34 centimeters. Double that would be over 27 inches, larger than the actual tapestry.)

   The original book was prohibitively expensive even when new, and has sold used for astronomical sums. We are fortunate indeed that Thames & Hudson has decided to reissue the book, with superb, large plates, at such a reasonable price. A few glitzy touches have been sacrificed, such as the slipcase, gold-embossed cover and decorative endpapers. But the book itself is as good as ever.

   The first section shows the entire tapestry in vivid color and crisp detail, fine enough to see the individual stitches, at more than half-scale. Smaller, black-and-white images accompany a detailed description of the people and events depicted. A full translation of all the latin texts is included. So, too, are excellent essays on the history behind the tapestry, and the history and artistic context of the tapestry itself.

   Simply put, this is THE definitive book on a major piece of history. Highly recommended.

No comments about Fashion: The Industry and Its Careers.

2 comments about Elegance: The Seeberger Brothers and the Birth of Fashion Photography.

1. I own the old book _A Fashion Parade: The Seeberger Collection_, by Celestine Dars, and love it. Unfortunately, it was only ever published in the UK and it's long out of print, so it's very hard to find and very expensive. Happily for all fans of fashion photography, Virginie Chardin has filled the gap with her new book _Elegance_.
   
   The key thing about the brothers Seeberger is that, unlike a lot of later fashion photographers, they didn't go for sometimes-arty, sometimes-pretentious, sometimes-stagy posed shots. They preferred to get out and take pictures of the fashionable women of their day as these ladies actually wore their latest and most stylish clothes; the chic racetracks such as Auteuil were an especially favorite destination for the Seebergers, as, like Ascot in Britain, the grounds were thronged by women dressed in the latest fashions. Therefore, in this book, you'll see hundreds of photos of high fashion as it was worn in real life - not just the photographer's studio - in the first half of the 20th century. That alone should make it a first-class resource for fashion students and historians.



2. wow, glad I found this book. my focus is entirely on fashion images and this has really great images, especially from the teens---which aren't that plentiful (in other books), ie, real photos of the clothes from that period. the difference between the illustration of a teens style and the actual photo of a real person can be a real hoot! Anyway, lots of images that I haven't seen before of fashions from the turn of the century to about the late 30's early 40's. I have quite a library of fashion books now, but this goes into the 'real treasure' category.

3 comments about 1920s Fashions from B. Altman & Company.

1. This is yet another book that has wonderful illustrations and information about 1920s fashion. I recommend it to anyone who is interested in this pivotal decade in fashion.



2. "1920s Fashions from B. Altman & Company" provides over 700 black & white illustrations, detailed descriptions, and prices for clothing for the upper class of the Jazz Age. The focus is primarily on women's clothing and accessories, with everything from sophisticated evening wear to bathing suits, but you will also find a complete array of clothing for men and children as well. Please remember, because they buy directly from the manufacturer, "thus eliminating the no inconsiderable profits of the middleman," B. Altman & Company are able to offer patrons the benefit of the savings. This is a superb record of the styles worn by flappers in the Roaring Twenties; note than this is not simply the reproduction of a catalog from a particular year, but has fashion culled from the B. Altman catalogs of the entire decade. Interesting Footnote: The B. Altman & Company Department Store is now the New York Public Library Science, Industry & Business Library. Dover also has a reprint edition of "Altman's Spring and Summer Fashions Catalog, 1915," which records the fashions worn in the United States in the years before the First World War. This volume will be of interest to the fashion historian and of great use to costume designers working with this period of American History.



3. This is a lovely book of a wide variety of catalog drawings and photos from the B. Altman Company which carried higher quality items as compared to the Sears catalog books. There are men's and women's clothes and childrens clothes, hats, undergarments, stockings, shoes...A real treat if you are interested in what the upper middle class might have worn. And everything progresses by the year, so you can see how the fashions developed.

No comments about Fashion Retailing: A Multi-Channel Approach (Delmar Fashion).