Pretty Reading

I love reading about Beauty and Fashion – I think there is always room for self-improvement – so why not learn from the best? I’ve been especially spoiled this year because we live close to a fantastic library – so anytime I see a book that sounds interesting – I place it on my request list – and within a week I can go pick it up (almost as fast as Amazon – without the expense or clutter!) Here are some books that I’ve read this year.

Making Faces by Kevyn Aucoin – Aucoin’s work was legendary – and this book has many different looks to inspire you. On my to-buy list.

Real Beauty Sonia Kashuk – Interesting reading, but I didn’t learn anything new about make-up application. The end section has interviews with experts in health, nutrition, nails, etc. I photocopied the 2 page dietitian interview as there were some great tips on supplements and food choices.

The Lucky Shopping Manual

The Lucky Guide to Mastering Any Style – Both these books are written by the editors of Lucky magazine. I found the Shopping Manual to be more useful (on my to-buy list ). It features sections on each type of clothing item (pants, dresses, skirts) with tips on buying and wearing them. The second book was fun to flip through – it goes through different clothing styles (such as Gamine, American Casual and Euro-Chic) and identifies icons who personify these looks. It then suggests key wardrobe elements to capture these styles.

Style A to Zoe by Rachel Zoe – Just finished reading this. Has beautiful pictures of Nicole Richie and Mischa Barton (back when she was in It-girl) – but I didn’t take away ANYTHING from this book. Definitely one to flip through but NOT purchase.

That Extra Half Inch by Victoria Beckham – I LOVE this book. I wasn’t a huge VB fan before I read it – but she has a great sense of humour, beautiful pictures of her modelling gorgeous clothes- and lots of great advice. Another one on my to-buy list.

ON MY BOOKSHELF – WAITING TO BE READ:

A Guide to Quality, Taste & Style by Tim Gunn – borrowed from the library

The Body Shape Bible by Trinny and Susannah – borrowed from the library

The New Secrets of Style – Purchased – I have 2 other InStyle books – and they have great inspiration pictures for hair and make-up – so I have high hopes for this one.

About Face by Scott Barnes – Purchased – JLo’s make-up is always glamorous and amazing – and Scott Barnes is responsible for it! I look forward to reading this and hope that there are lots of useful tips.

Have you read any of these books? Did you like them? What are your favourite books on Fashion or Beauty?