1 comments about Green is the New Black: How to Change the World with Style.

1. Green is the New Black: How to Change the World with Style, by Tamsin Blanchard is a terrific book!
   
   Blanchard discusses all aspects of green, sustainable clothing, as well as fair trade fashion. There are plenty of resources for ethical designers and businesses.
   
   Blanchard understands we are not going to stop making clothing purchases, but does believe that we should buy less of it and better quality clothing.
   
   She suggests ways to recycle clothing. And writes about "swishing" parties, where you trade clothes with your friends.
   
   I love the section on DIY style--Blanchard believes we should wear what makes us feel comfortable and individual and suggests cool projects to easily make ourselves.
   
   I also recommend Harmonious Environment: Beautify, Detoxify and Energize Your Life, Your Home and Your Planet, as it shows how to make your home,food and personal care products eco-friendly and healthy and Big Green Purse: Use Your Spending Power to Create a Cleaner, Greener World to make all your spending eco-friendly and fairtrade.

5 comments about Change Your Shoes, Change Your Life: Strut Your Way to a Fabulous New You!.

1. I was hopeless; I wore comfortable... shoes usually from Payless. Nothing wrong with that until I was bored and waiting for friends at a bookstore and saw the pretty red cover of this book and briefly read bits and parts. Left the store without buying it; but it had some strange hold on me. A month later, back in the store I picked it up again to read bits more, but again, left without buying. The few parts I read had me. I had to go back and buy it. So strange to have to buy it; like an addiction.
   Found it... so fluffy yet sooo fun. I learned so much and more. I bought a notebook and actually took notes! AND found the courage and strength to buy my first pair of 'real' shoes. Thank Reynolds for so much fun. Like the best magazine articles organized!!! I've bought several for gifts; it has started to change my life!



2. Who knew that humble footwear could have such an influence on our lives?
   
   If you're a lifelong "shoe diva", you probably suspected that the coverings you choose for your little piggies could:
   
   --improve your self esteem
   --make men drool
   --get you a better job
   --make your entire wardrobe look better
   --improve your daily comfort
   
   But, if you're like the rest of us (oblivious ones) you may not have realized just how high you can soar on those stilletos or platform heels, or, even, dare I say it?--ballerina flats.
   
   Sue Reynolds does a wonderful job of making footwear seem fascinating (there's plenty of historical information in this book,along with the fashion advice) and, even if you're an athletic shoe kind of gal, you may find yourself wanting to add spunky laces to those Nikes!
   
   A fun read, recommended!



3. Susan Reynolds is a delightful, captivating woman with an engaging sense of humor-part historian and etymologist, part social commentator and psychologist, and above all, a consummate connoisseur of footwear.
   
   I had the wonderful opportunity to hear Reynolds on a talk show recently, and marveled at her ability to elaborate on a topic as pedestrian and superficial to the casual observer as footwear and shoe preference. With equal finesse, Reynolds can discuss the mythological implications of the shoe as a metaphorical archetype, and dissect the aesthetic attributes and architectural nuances of a DKNY slingback. It's a testament to Reynolds' passion about shoes that the interviewer, though indifferent to shoes themselves, confessed a fascination with shoe aficionados!
   
   Having been a wedding and portrait photographer, I'd come to appreciate the vital dimension that props and other objects of personal significance occupy in the overall visual motif. As creatures with enormous curiosity, we're constantly scrutinized by those around us who diagnose and analyze--both overtly and subconsciously--all the varied and subtle details we exhibit to the world. For women more so than men, apparel in general--and the shoe in particular--is a kind of shorthand to assist acquaintances and strangers in constructing a sensible representation of who we are (or would like to be). So why not "strut your stuff," to quote one of Reynolds favorite admonitions!
   
   Reynolds is enormously fun to read, and you'll discover fascinating anthropological revelations about shoes and their evolutionary heritage. For example, she draws amusing parallels between humans and baboons when reflecting on a finding gleaned from primate studies. Baboons in the field, according to Reynolds, walk on the balls of their feet when sexually aroused!
   
   While scientists are left to hypothesize that such curious traits evolved as adaptive mechanisms enabling the species to survive, I'm forced to admire Reynolds' ability to shift from the sublime to the hilarious. The image of an ape in stiletto pumps, after all, is one I'm not likely to forget!
   
   "Change Your Shoes, Change Your Life" is an enjoyable and flirtatious read for women who love shoes, and for men who love the many aspects to a woman's personality that a pair of shoes can so mysteriously and marvelously evoke.



4. This is a fun and inspirational book - great for any shoe-lovin girlfriend.



5. "Change Your Shoes, Change Your Life" had me laughing in some places and nodding my head in agreement in many others. It updates the Cinderella fairy tale to an adult level, and answers a lot of questions about why men respond to women the way they do. Now, if the author could only explain why else men act the way they do, and what we can do about it!
   Not only did I buy several copies of this book for stocking stuffers and Secret Santa exchange gifts, it's also my book club's assigned reading for next month along with -- ready for this -- "Everything You Wanted to Know About Sex But Were Afraid to Ask." Won't that be an interesting meeting!!!

No comments about Kit's Fashion Studio (The American Girls Collection).

5 comments about Fabulous Fit.

1. Don't be misled by the title or other reviews. This is not a pattern alteration book (though each body anomaly has a useless little picture of one pattern piece with little pictures of scissors all around it showing where they want you to cut said pattern piece.) This book can be helpful as long as you understand what it really does and this is what you are looking for.
   
   The book basically lists each body type and then shows you 5 or so garments that would be a good choice for covering the body flaw. As one reviewer said, many of the garments shown are not currently in style, but that is not to be counted against the book as much as it is against the garment industry. Some styles cover certain body shapes better than others and it is unfortunate for you when the style that looks best on you is not currently in-vogue.
   
   The book is helpful in steering you to make correct garment choices for your body characteristics. The challenge is to purchase or make these garments in up-to-date looking patterns.
   
   If you are looking for an excellent pattern alteration book, look no further than the excellent "Fast Fit" by Sandra Betzina.
   
   By the way, don't pay any more than 10 or so dollars for this book.



2. I bought this book for my sewing class; however, I don't like it because it doesn't have as much substance as the "Fitting & Pattern Alterations" book. In addition, it is over-priced. I like chapters 2 and 3 best out of the whole book. There is a typo on page 3, bullet #4. Most of the clothing sketches are dated; I've hardly seen anyone who dresses in those styles that were illustrated in the book. I personally don't believe that anyone can wear any style because each person has a different figure shape, height and weight. As for the style tip, I'd rather pick up a good how to dress fashion book.



3. No matter how a sewer tries, learning to fit can be a difficult task. Judith Rasband tries to explain fitting in a different way than the other fit books do. It is worthwhile reading to explore a different point of view on the subject.



4. At last! Something that makes sense over the different body shapes! And to think of showing you what to wear in order to emphasize/de-emphasize certain areas.

   Well written, thought out, etc. Even down to how different RTW (ready to wear) sizes are from regular patterns.




5. I would highly recommend this book to anyone seeking better fit in dressmaking. The seam method of pattern alteration is pretty easy and straightforward. Judith presents alterations for the bodice, skirt, and pants. With the information in this book, you can alter your pattern for square or sloping shoulders, wide or narrow hips/waist, thin arms, rounded back, and many other necessary alterations. I did not find the bust alteration to be very helpful to me, however. I prefer other methods, but I often use the seam method for widening my waist and hips in my own patterns. Additionally, Judith offers style suggestions to flatter various figures. It is an interesting and useful book!

5 comments about Jackie Style.

1. Jackie Kennedy's Francophile roots made her a unique style icon as the US First Lady. Her appeal mesmerized the public because of the distinctions of her mannerisms, dress, and general image unlike many of her counterparts past and present. Jackie's timeless style appeal is a great place to start for ideas on creating one's own look inspired from a classic icon. The best style is your own and makes the most of your natural looks. Depending on the message you want to give the world ... Jackie and Sophia and Audrey Style are great resource to start.



2. I liked this book alot. I have read numerous volumes about Jackie and this one makes a refreshing change. The approach is both light and informative. The information given is different from the usual stuff and is presented in just the right amount of detail. I particularly enjoyed the anecdotes about Jackie's life during the eighties and early nineties, also the insight into her interior decor taste. The detailed illustration credits were also appreciated. The book is good quality and enjoyable to read.



3. This is a interesting book about JKO, but certainly not the best on the shelves. Keogh makes to many shallow assumptions throughout but, the reader can feel that the author maintains respect for JKO. It is also interesting how she decribes JKO's interior designing style, which I loved. She even has pictures of JKO's dressing room in the White House and her drawing room at 1040 Fifth Avenue, which is a VERY beautiful room. Keogh encompasses many aspects of JKO's style, her love of literature and art, and most of all- her family. A good read, worth the price.



4. I was attracted to this book by its feel and the promise of learning more about that certain "something" Jackie radiates. After mentally debating the price, my lust for more Jackie style information won out and I purchased it. It is a substantial book in many ways but weak in others. The beginning of the book is awkward as the author describes what Jackie was thinking after her husband won the Presidency. How could the author know? The authors assumptions immediately made me question the rest of the books authenticity. As I read through the book however, the author changed tactics and began to describe the first lady using research that was factually supported. She discusses Jackie's upbringing, her role as young woman, and beyond. Though most of the information has been written about before, several aspects were elaborated on to add a new twist and make them more interesting. For example, I had read many times about Jackie winning Vogue magazines Prix de Paris competition, but never in the detail Keough gives. There are a number of photographs in the book but unfortunatly the way they are presented lacks impact. Many are black and white, others small for the page, few are new, and in general they don't have the luster that they could. For example, p.182 has a full size, black and white photograph of Jackie with flowers fully covering her face. If this is one of the never seen photographs Keough promises well I can see why. Another page is devoted to a full color photo of Ari Onasis. Since the full color photos of Jackie are few why not make it one of her? Pamela Keoughs previous book Audrey Style had a much better selection of pictures that made an impression! There are also some line sketches of Jackie in a pillbox. The sketch looks more like Anjelica Houston. The information in the book is broad. The author has obviously done alot of research and she relays the information with her fresh perspective. But many readers will wish for more information about Jackie's STYLE not her life history. For those just beginning to read about Jackie this will be a good introduction but to those familiar with her and the books about her this will be a rehash and retelling.



5. Pam Keogh's clear and stunning portrait of Jackie Kennedy Onassis gives the reader aspects of this complex and intriguing woman from the inside out. It is a warm and visually beautiful view of JKO that goes beyond what she wore where. If you want a glimpse of the private Jackie, buy this book!

No comments about Celtic Fashions (Dover Pictorial Archives).

No comments about Core Concepts in Fashion (Core Concepts).

No comments about Essential Fashion Illustration: Details (Essential Fashion Illustrations).

1 comments about Denim: From Cowboys to Catwalks: A Visual History of the World's Most Legendary Fabric.

1. Anyone with an interest in denim will find this wonderful book to be a very easy and enlightening read. The pictures are all bright, clear, and of high quality. There are several great images of musicians and celebrities wearing denim (Elvis, Marvin Gaye, Miles Davis) as well as close-up shots of vintage jeans (The first known pair of Levis!). Not only are the pictures great, but the book is written in a manner which is easy to digest. The subject ranges from the history of denim to current trends. It also contains a glossary of terms for quick lookup so if you need to be reminded what selvage or sanfordized is, it's there for you.
   
   I highly recommend this book to anyone who has an interest in fashion and denim, or simply anyone who wears a pair jeans.

5 comments about Nursery Rhyme Knits: Hats, Mittens & Scarves with Kids' Favorite Verses.

1. I absolutely love this book! The designs are beautiful and unique. The author gives great detail on how to do the projects and great ideas on how to make them great. I made a scarf using some patterns from the book that I personalized for my own creation and added the fleece lining on the back like the author suggests and it's my most favorite scarf. I never thought of adding fleece which helped the scarf to hold the shape and not roll even with the purl stitch. I'm working on a matching hat now and will continue with other ideas in the book. I hope the author writes many more books with her wonderful designs for people like me who copy patterns well, but have trouble coming up with creating my own design. I hope she will include more wonderful ideas and tidbits on how to make the projects great and I'd love to see something with a cycling pattern :-) Amazon shipped the book very quickly and provides lots of feedback from other knitters. The book is fantastic. Buy it today! Cristin



2. This is a wonderful book. I know you will enjoy the stylish and attractive designs.



3. Let me just say right off the bat, I love this book!
   
   A basic pattern for a blanket, hat, scarf or mittens is presented, followed by detailed graphs of 16 multi-colored designs, each based on a different nursery rhyme. The words are knit right into the accesory, and fleshed out with corresponding design details like flowers, fish, trains, or other animals.
   
   General make-up directions are presented as well, including two different ways to finish the hat - either as a stocking cap, or as a four-pointed hat with tassels. The blanket, scarf, and mittens are all meant to be lined, and the lining instructions are clearly presented as well.
   
   All of these projects are made up in fingering or sport weight yarn, working on 0,1 or 2 needles. The hat and mittens are knitted in the round, scarves and blankets on straight needles. Because of the lightweight yarn and small sized needles, these are not projects you are going to bang out in a weekend, but planning ahead to make a special item that is sure to become a family heirloom is a fine idea.
   
   The designs themselves are what makes this book worth the cost. The patterns are extremely clever - picking up on the theme of each rhyme without being obvious or cloying. And I loved the color choices - many of these patterns would suit a boy or a girl equally well - no washed out pastel pink and blue baby blankets here!
   
   For intermediate knitters, a little too much to tackle for a beginner I think. But if you have experience with, or want to learn fair isle technique, I can't think or a better way to start. Despite the small needle sizes, these kid sized projects will not require a huge time commitment, and I can only imagine the look of gratitude on the face of a lucky recipient, pint-sized or adult, of an item from this book.
   
   Mary Beth Temple is the writer/editor of the web site All Info About Knitting.



4. This book is a must have for knitters that want to add unique knitting designs for their adorable ones. The author provides designs on making garments using the nursery rhymes on mittens, hats, and scarves. The designs are cute and adorable. The instructions are colorful and clear. Your darling angels will love their hats, mittens and scarves!!!



5. I am very excited about this lovely book! The watercolor illustrations and beautiful photos show the clever designs off very well. A special chapter on color work is particularly helpful. The graphs are large and clear. The color palate is sophisticated and charming. My only problem is how to decide which to knit first!
   Nell