Monday, March 23, 2009

Review: The One Hundred by Nina Garcia


Title: The One Hundred: A Guide to the Pieces Every Stylish Woman Must Own
Author:
Nina Garcia
Hardcover:
304 pages
Publisher:
Collins Living
ISBN-10: 0061664618

In The One Hundred, fashion expert, Nina Garcia outlines 100 accessories that she deems timeless and classic assets to any woman's wardrobe. The pieces are listed and described in alphabetical order; beginning with A for the A-line dress and ending with Z for the zippered hoodie. Along with explanations as to why the pieces are included in her 100 list, Garcia gives fun trivia and historical facts regarding some of the items. Did you know, for example, that Ray-Ban Aviator sunglasses were first designed in 1936 or that the cardigan was named after the seventh Earl of Cardigan in 1874? Garcia also gives helpful advice on selecting items, where to find them, and how to wear them (not all 100 include this information). Another enjoyable addition to the book are quotes, interspersed throughout, such as this one by Helena Rubinstein: There are no ugly women, just lazy ones (for some reason, I find that comforting). For those who fancy "seeing" what the author is describing, The One Hundred includes illustrations of the various fashions mentioned. Personally, I would have preferred photographs. While I did not agree with all of the choices on Garcia's top 100 list, I did find useful information regarding classic pieces as well as practical fashion tips. Recommended for anyone interested in fashion and/or fashion trivia.

2 comments:

Erin said...

Thanks for the recommendation! The book inspired me to pull out lots of things I haven't worn in forever--the other day I even wore my fishnets with a pair of flats.

Forgetful Librarian said...

I'm glad you liked it!