I believe that learning about more than the current trends of the season is so important to maintaining a sense of true style. Style by definition is an equation and that equation is different or each individual but there are many values, visual cues, and facts that never change. Examples of constant style & beauty truths are great skin care can not be replaced, investing solely in accessories is a mistake, yes today does matter even if you see those people everyday, quality in both and style begets quality. No matter how you look at it you have to educate yourself about your whole personal style picture.
I chose 5 books that really inspire me when it comes to image in general. For me beauty and style are hand in hand. You can not rock a hot outfit with out framing it. For me grooming, hair, as well as personal care fr both men and women takes precedence in order to truly take your look to the next level. The combination of both are the keys to being a total package.
I will work on a Top 10 magazine list over the next week or so. I want to make sure you, my virtual client, has great resources to keep you inspired. Whether you are newly single looking for a renewed sense of self r you just feel like it is time to step up your game. I am a firm believer that great advice comes from experts that lend their years of experience to give you an alternate prospective other than your own.
1. Beauty Equation by
+Nigel Barker
I really loved the general outlay of the book as well as the simplicity of the delivery. What he says about you being the star of the show is so important because confidence is the foundation of all success n life. He gives you insight on being objective as well as challenging you accepted definition of who you are. I love the quotes too.
(I give it 4 stars )
2. Beauty by Lauren Conrad
Lauren is very thorough in this book that covers everything from makeup to skin care. My favorite thing that she does is give you a list of ingredients to avoid. Often women's lack of education works to their skin's deficit. There are two parts Prep and then the other section is called Play. The Play section really gives you beauty techniques as well as manicure advise. Home run for Lauren Conrad!
(I give it 5 stars)
3. You Are What You Wear by Dr. Jennifer Baumgartner
OMG just amazing! As a total image stylist/ image consultant I find the psychology of clothing, beauty, fashion, and what people are drawn to while shopping so interesting. From the shape of your bag to the height of your heels you are saying something to the world. From quiz topics to great transformation advice I love the introspective reflections in this book. It is a great body of information in general but I am just amazd at the amazing points that this book brings to the surface. It creates incredible dialogue that will help you really analyze what your style choices are saying when aren't speaking.
(I give it 5 stars)
4. Face Forward by
+Kevyn Aucoin
Timeless is the only word to describe all of the books that Kevyn wrote before he passed. He worked with legends like Tina Turner, did covers for Elle, Vogue and Rolling Stone just to name a few. I mean even Janet Jackson and Vanessa Williams rocked his work. Face Forward gives you a glimpse at ho to create you most beautiful self. I am still in awe years later. I reread this book often like something will change. Every woman should indulge in these amazing pages.
(I give it 1 MILLION STARS!)
5. The Truth About Style by Stacy London
A clear industry front running talent Stacy London is incredible. From her show What Not to Wear and her other incredible books comes this great body of knowledge written from the prospective of a true style maven. I love that she does not hold her tongue about building her own confidence. Women need to know that there are other accomplished women who battled themselves and won. She is brilliant and so is her amazing approach to style.
( I give it 4 stars)
