3 fashion books to devour to start the year in style
With a new year comes a new dose of fashion inspiration. And what better way to fuel your imagination and refine your sense of style than by diving into exquisite works?
This season, three books are captivating the attention of fashionistas and lovers of belles lettres . Pages to devour between two cappuccinos in your favorite café or comfortably seated at home, these literary treasures are as many declarations of love to fashion.
“Couture Confessions: Fashion Legends in Their Own Words”, Pamela Golbin
This book is a gem for those who dream of going behind the scenes (and into the minds) of the designers at the great couture houses . The last legendary couturiers of modern fashion speak eloquently about life, design, and inspiration. Vionnet, Chanel, Dior, Saint Laurent, McQueen: these names define haute couture, and long after the designers have passed away, their influence on fashion continues to be profound. In an exceptional compilation of the couturiers’ words, Couture Confessions offers a unique and in-depth look at the lives and work of these fashion icons. The book unveils conversations that shed light on their fascinating personal stories, as well as essential fashion moments—from designers Paul Poiret to Cristóbal Balenciaga, Madame Grès, Alexander McQueen, Madeleine Vionnet, Gabrielle Chanel, Elsa Schiaparelli, Yves Saint Laurent, Jeanne Lanvin, Pierre Balmain, and Christian Dior. Accompanied by illustrations by Yann Legendre, this book asks the questions that all fashion lovers have always wanted to ask, making these legendary creators accessible, human and ever more inspiring.
"Couture Confessions: Fashion Legends in Their Own Words" , €39.95. Read with a notebook nearby to jot down all your new style ideas.
“This is Not Fashion: Streetwear Past, Present and Future”, King Adz and Wilma Stone
Streetwear is not a trend, it’s a revolution, and this book is proof. The story begins in 1972 in Jersey City, USA, with the birth of the very first streetwear store, Trash and Vaudeville. The journey then takes in punk, Ivy League prep schools, Harlem’s hip-hop kings and queens, the dresser/casual movement born out of British football culture, the California skate scene, Milan’s Paninari, and more. This book highlights how streetwear, worn with integrity and confidence, has transcended cultures, races, genders, and ages to become an enduring global phenomenon . From big brands like Stüssy, Carhartt and Tommy Hilfiger to newcomers from South African townships and downtown Seoul, the book also examines how the digital age has changed the way streetwear is sold and consumed, and how the industry might evolve in the future . A book as bold as the movement it celebrates, it’s a perfect way to understand why sneakers are now as coveted as stilettos.
"This is Not Fashion: Streetwear Past, Present and Future" , €42. Devour it to stay on the cutting edge of cool.
“Vintage Treasures: Fashion at Auction, 1900/2000”, Angèle Hernu and Pénélope Blanckaert
In a world that is increasingly aware of ecological issues, vintage fashion is the glamorous and responsible answer . Proof of this is the many red carpets, where our favorite stars go to dig into the archives of great designers. Trésors du Vintage is an Argus written by experts in the field. It presents itself as an encyclopedic catalog of women's fashion. More than 1000 references visually present the most beautiful pieces exchanged on the market in recent years, accompanied by a precise commentary on the history of the garment and its label and on the signs of its authenticity (label, materials, finishes, condition, value.) Organized by decades in which the most beautiful pieces sold are grouped, it thus gives a complete panorama of the evolution of styles and trends of each period.
"Vintage Treasures: Fashion at Auction, 1900/2000" , from €62.82 second-hand. Read before you go hunting for fashion treasures, or simply to dream in front of iconic pieces.
