5 comments about Classic Millinery Techniques: A Complete Guide to Making & Designing Today's Hats.

1. This book is a comprehensive book on making hats. It is well written, very informative, highly detailed, and is a "must" for beginning milleners. The price was the best on the internet!



2. This text features incredibly well photographed images and clear diagrams. The writing itself is very easy to understand. Naturally it helps if you have a basic understanding of fabric (such as bias and fabric content) and at the bare minimum basic sewing skills (sewing machine, hand sewing and lots of patience.) This is a very thorough text.
   
   This book features highly on the list of millinery resources that I reccomend to people. The others being From the Neck Up and Hats on Heads.
   
   Please note that it doesn't refer to sinamay work, but techniques can be adapted. Nor does it address the blocking of hats such as felts or straw (only covering them if memory serves...). You would require a basic block to shape the lining fabrics for some cocktail pieces.
   
   Classic Millinery Techniques is a beautiful and virtually priceless book that will compliment your millinery work, hobby and studies. It's an astute investment and very inspirational.



3. Ms. Albrizio based this book on the courses she used to teach at the Fashion Institute of Technology. She is now 93 years old and retired from the millinery business, but I have never forgotten her spirit and determination to teach the future milliners of the world and to inspire all her students to wear their creations with flair. I spent a decade in the millinery business because of her instruction and had some great fun. I highly recommend this book and will always remember Ms. Albrizio, the Grand Dame...all decked out for the NY Easter Parade with her students...all wearing their favorite creations. Great fun!!!



4. This book covers most of the techniques needed for making hats. It is beautifully bound and tasefully illustrated.



5. Lovely compelation of photos that go hand in hand w/ technique.
   Gets you to jump right in making hats starting w/ basic techniques. An easy to follow learning method that moves you along starting w/ the basic cut and sew and moving on to more advaced methods.
   Follow her suggested guide lines for using the book.
   Are you the hands on type? Get this book. Youll be wearing a hat you made in no time.

5 comments about The Shining Cloth: Dress and Adornment That Glitter.

1. What a fabulous fascinating book. There are not many books on this subject. I found this one after purchasing a book called "Amulets" by Sheila Paine which is also highly recommended. "Shining Cloth" is full of gorgeous pictures and interesting anthropological, historical, and cultural information. Tribal and native textiles from all over the world are represented, including Africa, Japan, India, South America. I can't imagine why anyone object to a book devoted to these wonderful cultures and their use of textiles so vehemently they would write four negative reviews (all obviously from the same person) denouncing the book. Is that some kind of elitist snobbery and outrage suggesting that only westernized "civilized" collections of textiles should be the subject of a book. How bizarre and short sighted. There are many people like me who appreciate this material and don't see enough of it. There are hundreds of books on the more conventional and well known textiles and their histories. Certainly there is room for a few alternative views. The richness and diversity of these cultures should not be lost. Thank you Victoria Rivers for putting this together.
   
   The cover and title are also not misleading in any way as claimed in another review. Anyone who is familiar with textiles should recognize the mirror work and beadwork patterns of the nomadic people of northern India. How could a book about tribal textiles be misleading when it puts tribal textile patterns on the cover? The book claims to be about "dress and adornment that glitter" and that is exactly what it is about. The book investigates cultures that are invested in glittering and shining materials and how they are used in textiles. My only complaint about the book is that the binding is not well done and came apart from the rest of the book too easily. However, the content and format of the book deserves five stars so I give it five stars and a warning about the binding.



2. For those of you, like me, who cannot afford to own everything you want... or who do not want to maintain the incredible textile collection you will find pictured here. This book is the wonderful alternative. Close-up details, gorgeous color, perfect eye candy.



3. A brilliant read! Traveling the world has afforded me an upclose look at textiles and adornment such as you will see and read about in this highly profesional book. As a textile artist, and merchant of marvels, this book has been invaluable to my collection. This book is great for gift giving too!



4. I find this material to be more of a soapbox for the author to launch into tirades and attacks against Christianity and Christians using misinformation, skewed factoids and blatant lies and deceptions concerning Christianity and Christians, while promoting her own biased religious support for shamanism, Hinduism and various other religions under the false pretense of writing a book on "cloth".



5. A hobbyist's interest in textiles, sewing and garb drew me into the mysterious worlds presented in this fascinating and unique book. I am not a textiles professional, but I am able to appreciate it in many forms, whether tribal or ethnic, European, or the latest molecular likeness from DuPont. Dismissed by some as a "coffee table" book, The Shining Cloth actually is on my coffee table, where it has lain since its publication. Friends leaf through its wondrous pages, the unknown surfacing in unfathomable meaning from weave, creative decorations, the illustrious imagination that calls on a feather, a gold thread, some beads, and yes, a reflective dot, as a kind of speechless communication. I learned from The Shining Cloth of the metals used for reflection before the advent of the common mirror. Indigo and various dye from nature created signature fabric and design. Such explanations have parallels in my specialty -- food -- that is, people everywhere survive in ingenious ways. Tribal peoples continue even today an unshakeable superstitious dread of what their ancestors called the "evil eye." That their strategy for security could be the armour formed by the industrious and loving construction of a sparkling piece of clothing might have softened a terrifying life or added beauty to a bleak one. The entire subject begs inquiry and demands respect. Ms. Rivers' research certainly got my attention.

No comments about Wrap & Drape Fashion.

5 comments about Costuming from the Hip.

1. This is a really good book for all dancers to read. Understanding costume basics is important even if you are not making your own. I keep this in the classroom for students to look through. I put each page in a page protector and inserted them all in a notebook. The girls love using it as a reference and I recommend they get their own copies and start building their bellydance libraries.



2. a very good scource/reference book[let],more of it would have been good,as was bit thin on pages, but still an exellent ideas book with drawings & explanations easy to understand, i liked it.



3. I'm a beginning bellydancer but an experienced seamstress.My specialty is in proms/bridesmaid/formal wear.Love that this book is spiral bound for laying flat. Lots of good quick ideas, with variations & samples to enhance & create more ornate costumes. Some of the projects will be easier with some sewing experience(some of the instructions might be a little unclear at first reading) but most can be created with minimal sewing skills. It is a good starting point.I consider this book a definite plus in my sewing library for branching out into costuming.The ideas presented go beyond just bellydance and can be used in other areas of dance and/or costuming. I have several of Devine's books on my wish list.



4. The first in a series of these types of books, which are aimed at the amateur sewer as well as the professional designer. Just because it is a belly dancing costuming manual should not limit those interested in sewing and making costumes in general. This is a comprehensive guide to allow you to create your own designs, and not slaveishly following someone elses pattern and creation, and is a must in anyones personal library who are interested in fashion/costuming and theatre. This book also touches on the tradional costumes of the Middle and Far East throughout the ages, as well as theatrical costuming tips and design for every body type. Plus it includes patterns and design ideas, as well as dozens of graphics to illustrate the author's information.



5. i buy this book for my girlfriend...its not a book, its a stapled pile of paper at the price of a hardcover book

1 comments about Grading Techniques for Fashion Design Second Edition.

1. This book is not only an introduction to the amateur covering basic grading techniques on simple garments. It is a complete guide to grading women's clothes covering every possible style for the misses and junior size garments. Additional information on grading women and menswear size garments is also included.

   I am not an expert on the field of grading and this is why this book by J. Price and B. Zamkoff (who teach in the FIT) has proved to be of great help to me, as it is full of simple step by step instructions combined with many many clear diagrams. This is definitely a very practical book.

   The book comprises: Part1: A STUDY OF GRADING, including, types of grade, grading machines, computer grading, a guide to good grading, using the grading charts, grading chart etc. Part 2: GRADING BASIC DESIGNS, including, from bodice, back bodice with shoulder darts, back bodice with neck dart, torso, straight skirt, pants, set-in sleeve, collars, men's wear shirt Part 3: GRADING INTERMEDIATE DESIGNS, including, shawl collar, chemise dress, bodice and yoke, bodice and midriff, front princess bodice, back princess bodice, six gore skirt, circle skirt, sarong skirt, skirt with variations Part 4: GRADING ADVANCED DESIGNS, including, front kimono sleeves, back kimono sleeves, kimono raglan sleeve, square armhole, front gusset sleeve, back gusset sleeve, set-in raglan sleeve, princess bodice and sleeve-in-one, dropped shoulder sleeve, big shirt dolman sleeve Part 5: GRADING CREATIVE DESIGNS, including, halter bodice, assymetrical bodice, bustier, cowl neckline bodice, semi-fitted jumper, batwing sleeve with surplice bodice and peplum Part 6: ADDITIONAL DESIGNS FOR GRADING, including, from bodice with shoulder and waistline dart, armhole princess line bodice, front bodice with multiple darts or pleat, two-piece sleeve, puff sleeve, house gusset, shirtwaist sleeve with french cuff bishop sleeve with cuff bell sleeve with facing, shirt pocket, notch collar, cape, flared sleeve, cap sleeve, hood, skirt with circular flounce and shaped waistband, flared dress, culottes.

No comments about Visionaire No. 53: Sound.

5 comments about You Too Can Be a Fitness Model.

1. Working as a fitness model can be an enjoyable and profitable career. However, there are many pitfalls and dangers to avoid on this path, and for the first time someone who not only works, but has had tremendous success in this field is available to guide you. From creating your first portfolio, to the details of endorsement contracts, fitness model extraordinaire Clark Bartram will advise you, drawing on years of experience. You'll read about the great satisfaction such a career can bring, but perhaps more importantly you'll be told the truth about the reality of being a fitness model. This includes not only what attributes you'll need to succeed, but also your attitude, and how much money you can honestly expect to earn per shoot. In any field, links with people on the 'inside' are often what's needed to get that big break, and there's plenty of insiders in this book sharing their knowledge with you.

   It's not only great man-to-man advice in this book though. The beautiful, and very successful Monica Brant offers advice from a woman's perspective, which is of use to both male and female readers. Also, the people behind the cameras talk about what they look for in a model in the 'Lessons From The Other Side' section. All invaluable knowledge. The structure of the text is such that you can read from cover to cover, but also go straight to a particular topic and still have all the information you need.

   In short, if you're serious about a career as a fitness model, or just curious about what such a job would involve, then you cannot afford to pass up on this book. Agencies, self-promotion, tricks of the trade, training programs, possible employers, useful resources and even haircuts are all covered. I've found this book an exceptional resource, and my thanks to Clark Bartram for writing it.




2. This total insider's guide to the fitness modeling industry offers valuable information in a conversational manner, lets you know who's looking for the next fitness superstars, AND tells you exactly how to contact them.

   Clark Bartram's own accounts of his success are honest, candid, and loaded with advice and encouragement for aspiring fitness models - guys and girls. You really feel like he's opening up and telling you everything you need to know. Plus, a lot of his influential friends - agents, photographers, and magazine editors - have contributed chapters explaining the business from every angle.

   You come away learning that fitness modeling isn't just about being in tremendous shape, it's about being a shrewd businessperson with a positive attitude. You really learn what it takes - and as a bonus you get simple but effective advice on training and nutrition to keep in top shape all year long.

   If you decide you want to be a fitness model after reading this book, you'll feel like you have some real friends in the industry. If you call anyone mentioned in the book and tell them that you read it, I think they'd give you a real shot if you're serious. If you decide you don't want to be a fitness model after reading this book, you'll still have a positive guide with powerful advice you can use to look, feel, and be your very best.




3. Clark has helped me learn how to achieve the goal I want and to market myself in the fitness business. He has the knowledge, and the dedication to get you anywhere you want to be. After reading his book I too believe that If I work hard and dedicate myself that I could have a future being a Fitness model. This is an incredible book and I would recommend it to anyone interested in Fitness.



4. This book has helped me find business contacts that would have probably cost me alot of money if I would have searched other ways.I really did'nt know that it was this easy to contact the people who make the big decisions. I could'nt and would'nt have done it without this book. If you have ever had the dream of being a fitness model,then I strongly advise you to buy this book...



5. It's so refreshing to finally find a book that applies specifically to the interests of fitness models and that covers the topic so thoroughly. Weeding through the books written for fashion models was becoming tiresome, so I was pleasantly surprised when I finally came across this book. While reading it, I was ecstatic to find that it was packed full of useful information. I was able to identify the mistakes I've been routinely making and start implementing Clark's invaluable advice. All of the other books I've purchased have not been as useful to me as this one book. I recommend it to anyone who is serious about fitness modeling!

1 comments about Altered Style: Sewing & Embellishing Wearable Fashions.

1. Ms. Kimura is on my must have book buy list. She always offers unique ideas which spark more unique ideas. Thanks for another great addition to my collection.

3 comments about Artwear: Fashion and Anti-Fashion.

1. I originally bought this book for the section on Kasik Wong- whose clothing art work is STUNNING! This book features other unique designers who have turned fabric into scultural show pieces. There are things in the book for everyone. I tended to like some more than others- but the sections that showed handcrafted exotic work -puffy and strange were inspirational to me. Others seemed more minimal and origami inspired. Most of the book has beautiful images.



2. This is a beautiful book showing designs from many wonderful art-to-wear artists. I enjoyed it and find it to be an inspiration.



3. This book has a lot of color pictures, fantastic, imaginative artwear, much to make new ideas flow, worth keeping to revitalize the thought processes every now and again.

2 comments about Costume Design.

1. I have Cletus as my design teacher at Carnegie Mellon University this year. I have looked at the book, and it is definitely worth using and referring to regularly. The main thing to know is that Cletus has done everything, knows everything and really, he is the end all source of theatre, costume and artistic information and advice. He got through Yale School of Drama Grad program without ever turning in anything late... think about that. Now why would you choose another book?



2. I have used this book as the text in my Costume Design class for years and find it is the only one to my knowledge that covers both the conceptual aspects of costuming for the theatre as well the craft of rendering and construct. It even addresses historical information briefly. I was saddened to hear that the book was out of print. I am hoping a new edition will be out soon