FabSugar -- Have. Want. Need.

Fab Read: Narciso Rodriguez

FabSugar — Mon, 24 Nov 2008 16:00:22 -0800

I can't think of a better time than now to read Narciso Rodriguez ($60), authored by the designer himself and Betsy Berne. After all, he's the designer who created Michelle Obama's controversial red and black dress. Did you know that Narciso was also responsible for the late Carolyn Bessette Kennedy's minimal yet elegant wedding dress? Claire Danes, Sarah Jessica Parker, and Salma Hayek are also great clients and friends of the designer.

This 272-page book explores the work of one of the great American designers of our time. It takes you behind the scenes of his atelier, where he uses his inspirations to sketch and create beautiful clothes. Discover why Anna Wintour once said: "No one but Narciso has ever made a simple line look more stunning."

Fab Read: Valentino, Themes and Variations

FabSugar — Tue, 11 Nov 2008 06:00:22 -0800

While the fate of the brand is rocky, we still can admire Valentino's 47 years of artistry in Valentino: Themes and Variations ($47) written by famous Louvre curator, Pamela Golbin.

"I have always considered my work as one of a writer. Over the years I wrote only one story, the one of my style, where each collection represents a single chapter, with all of its emotions, ideas, and motifs. The looks may change with every chapter, but the main characters are the same, as are the people and things that inspire me," said Valentino.

This magnificent book highlights Valentino's expertise in volume, texture, pleats, and flowers throughout his career. Also included are exclusive backstage images from Valentino's last collection in Paris, designs that date back half a century, and commentary from the designer himself. A definite must-have for every Valentino lovah.

Fab Read: Freakin' Fabulous: How to Dress, Speak, Behave, Eat, Drink, Entertain, Decorate, and Generally Be Better Than Everyone

FabSugar — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 16:00:22 -0800

You surely know Clinton Kelly, cohost of What Not To Wear. When he wasn't busy styling desperately-in-need people on TV, he was plugging away on his book Freakin' Fabulous: How to Dress, Speak, Behave, Eat, Drink, Entertain, Decorate, and Generally Be Better Than Everyone Else ($17). It's a mouthful and so is his advice. He believes — and I agree — that fabulousness doesn't stop at style. Among other things, find out how to flatten a big butt, plump up a flat one, and how to make your entire silhouette look slim. Oh, and how do you eat an oyster without getting kicked out of a chi-chi restaurant? He has advice on that, too.

Fab Read: American Fashion Accessories

FabSugar — Mon, 13 Oct 2008 16:00:22 -0700

As the executive fashion director of Style.com, it's safe to say Candy Pratts Price knows a thing or two about accessories. Lucky for us, she's decided to put her years of expertise in one beautiful book, American Fashion Accessories ($32). This Assouline edition is filled with beautiful images of accessories, many of which were created from members of the CFDA.

Photos date from the early 1900s and range from witty Hollywood hats to Madonna’s rubber bracelets. It's more than a look book, it's pop history!

For a sneak peek inside the book,

Fab Read: The Lucky Guide to Mastering Any Style, How to Wear Iconic Looks and Make Them Your Own

FabSugar — Fri, 10 Oct 2008 15:00:22 -0700

Lucky magazine is a brilliant source of style information, so naturally I trust its new book will be the same. The Lucky Guide to Mastering Any Style: How to Wear Iconic Looks and Make Them Your Own ($20), written by editor-in-chief Kim France and creative director Andrea Linett, helps women discover the best looks for them based on 10 iconic style prototypes.

What's more, the new release features the magazine's signature Lucky Breaks section. It offers exclusive deals and giveaways from well-known brands. Paige Premium Denim, for example, is giving away 10 shopping sprees for $1,000 each. Sign me up.

Fab Read: Fashion Inside Out, Daniel V's Guide to How Style Happens From Inspiration to Runway and Beyond

FabSugar — Fri, 03 Oct 2008 04:00:22 -0700

Project Runway alum Daniel Vosovic has taken fate into his own hands with his new book, Fashion Inside Out: Daniel V's Guide to How Style Happens From Inspiration to Runway and Beyond ($20).

In it, Daniel reveals his tips on how to become a successful fashion designer. From connecting with the right people to self promotion, this how-to is an informative easy read. Don't forget to read the touching foreword from Tim Gunn. This is a must-read for every aspiring fashion designer. If you don't believe me, ask him yourself at his upcoming blog interview with Craft. Just submit your questions in the comments section of the Craft post and the moderators will take it from there.

Fab Read: 99 Ways to Cut, Sew, Tie & Rock Your Scarf

FabSugar — Mon, 29 Sep 2008 15:00:22 -0700

For consisting of such little fabric, a scarf is mighty versatile. It can be tied anywhere — your head to your bag, your wrist to your neck, and even your hips.

99 Ways to Cut, Sew, Tie & Rock Your Scarf ($14) by Faith Blakeney, Justina Blakeney, and Ellen Schultz will teach you even more ways to work with your scarf collection. Party tops, ponchos, flowy dresses — the possibilities are endless. And each of the 99 projects takes less than an hour from start to finish. Time to get crafty . . .

Reminder! Win Nina Garcia's The One Hundred and a Pair of Ray Ban Aviators

FabSugar — Sat, 06 Sep 2008 09:00:08 -0700

If you haven't yet heard about our special Fashion Week giveaway, then you must be living under a boulder. Come on out and enter to win Project Runway judge Nina Garcia's latest book The One Hundred. You may recall that FabSugar is mentioned in it. Four lucky ladies will not only win her new fabulous book, but also one of her one hundred recommended fashion items — Ray Ban aviator sunglasses ($129). Fab-u-lous. To enter, just take our fun Nina Garcia quiz located in the original post. You will find all the rules and regulations there. Don't forget, I'm pulling the plug on entries on the last day of Fashion Week: Friday, Sept. 12, at 11:59pm PDT. Good luck!

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Fab Read: A Year in High Heels

FabSugar — Fri, 05 Sep 2008 05:00:08 -0700

A Year in High Heels by Camilla Morton ($16), is the ultimate how-to guide on living a magnificently fashionable life.

Broken down month-by-month, Morton gives us advice on things every woman should know, from how to deal with Valentine's Day alone to diets and detoxing. Along with a forward from close friend and shoe extraordinaire Manolo Blahnik, who stated, "She is witty beyond belief, a wonder with words, and knows fashion like a medic would know the human body . . .", Morton also divulges tips from industry professionals such as Gisele Bundchen, Nick Knight, and Antonio Berardi, to name a few.

This how-to is packed with over 500 pages of tips I guarantee you will be using for the rest of your life. My favorite? Since I like to break the rules, I found her advice on decoding dress codes quite interesting.

Fashion Week Giveaway! Win Nina Garcia's The One Hundred and a Pair of Ray Ban Aviators

FabSugar — Wed, 03 Sep 2008 04:00:22 -0700

Just because I'm jetting off to New York Fashion Week doesn't mean I have all the fun. We have a special Fashion Week giveaway, brought to you by our favorite fashion editor and Project Runway judge, Nina Garcia. You may recall her latest book The One Hundred, and the fact that FabSugar is in it. It gets even better. Four lucky ladies will not only win her new fabulous book, but also one of her one hundred recommended fashion items — Ray Ban aviator sunglasses ($129). So, you can read Nina's new book and relax in your neighborhood park, while wearing a classic pair of shades. I painted a nice picture, huh?To enter to win, just log in and take our fun Nina Garcia quiz. You do, however, need to be a TeamSugar member to take the quiz. If you're not already a member, register here for an account. One quiz entry per person; all repeat quizzes will be ignored. Remember: you must be logged in to TeamSugar for your vote to count. Here are the official rules. I'm pulling the plug on entries on the last day of Fashion Week: Friday, Sept. 12, at 11:59pm PDT. Good luck!

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Fab Read: Isaac Mizrahi's How to Have Style

FabSugar — Mon, 25 Aug 2008 16:00:22 -0700

Designer Isaac Mizrahi is a reputable source in the fashion industry; that's why I'm eager to pick up his book, How to Have Style ($20), currently on pre-order.

Come October, we'll get into the head of one of the most lighthearted designers out there. Mizrahi doesn't believe in "makeovers." Instead, he is a problem solver who wants to show you how to have fun with fashion. He uses 12 real women with wardrobe problems and walks you through how to wear only what inspires you and the fundamentals of personal style. He'll also share a plethora of tips, like how to mix patterns and colors, and shows how to make an inspiration board.

Fab Read: Gucci Wars, How I Survived Murder and Intrigue at the Heart of the World's Biggest Fashion House

FabSugar — Fri, 15 Aug 2008 15:00:22 -0700

Ever wanted to be a "Gucci wife"? Check out Gucci Wars: How I Survived Murder and Intrigue at the Heart of the World's Biggest Fashion House ($23) by Jenny Gucci. In a tell-all biography, Jenny Gucci unveils her life of love and betrayal during her 10-year stint as the wife of fashion founder's grandson, Paolo Gucci.

I don't want to spill the beans but look forward to tales of rivalry, greed, and deceit as Jenny Gucci reminisces on the good times, making friends with celebrities and royalty, and the bad involving her nasty and dangerous divorce with Paolo Gucci.

Fab Read: The One Hundred by Nina Garcia

FabSugar — Wed, 13 Aug 2008 13:00:22 -0700

Nina Garcia is proving to be quite the authority on penning style. The Elle fashion director turned Marie Claire fashion director and Project Runway judge is also a Fab favorite — remember she answered all your burning fashion questions a while back? With her surely busy schedule, and following her first book, Nina has released The One Hundred: A Guide to the Pieces Every Stylish Woman Must Own ($15), available for preorder. Like her first book, Ruben Toledo illustrations accompany witty and exact writing. Unlike her first book, it's silver, denser, and yours truly is featured on page 29! How exciting is that? (Thanks, Nina)I've given it a good flip through and I already own many of her 100 suggested items to style salvation. Phew — knowing Nina she would have convinced me to get all 100. But what's cool is, even though I own a monokini, I did not know the Vatican denounced it in 1964. And these are the sort of fashion nuggets Nina shares. Make sure to add this one to your Summer reading list, stat.

Fab Read: Cheap Date Guide to Style

FabSugar — Wed, 06 Aug 2008 16:00:22 -0700

If your only rule in fashion is that there are no rules, pick yourself up Cheap Date Guide to Style ($25) by Kira Jolliffe and Bay Garnett. Like the title says, it's meant to help you find your inherent natural style without going broke. Who can refuse that?

Various chapters guide you through developing your own sense of style, the art of accessorizing, and mixing cheap basics and chic secondhand finds. Actresses Mischa Barton, Rachel Weisz, and Chloe Sevigny are interviewed about their personal style for inspiration. Sounds like the perfect way to plump up your cheap date resume.

Fab Read: Influence

FabSugar — Fri, 01 Aug 2008 02:00:22 -0700

It takes exactly 272 pages to summarize Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen's lives in their highly anticipated book dubbed Influence ($23). Featuring rare photos from the Olsens' private collection — some shot by famed photographer Rankin — along with exclusive interviews, the stylish duo unveils a side of themselves we've never seen.

The interviews will be with some of their favorite icons: "The most interesting, challenging, creative people we know — the ones who helped pave the way for us and our generation," said Ashley. Nab your copy on pre-sale today, I know I will.

Fab Read: The House of Viktor & Rolf

FabSugar — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 14:00:22 -0700

The recent Viktor & Rolf retrospective left you guys split between freaky and fabulous. If you leaned toward fabulous, look forward to reading The House of Viktor & Rolf ($38), by fashion historian Caroline Evans and fashion editor Susannha Frankel, in their tribute to the eccentric Dutch duo.

This richly detailed book examines Viktor & Rolf’s quirky designs across the years, along with awesome behind-the-scenes photos, personal interviews, and stunning pictorials. Each collection is also accompanied by a detailed biography — ooh, I've always wanted to know what inspires them! So why did they decide to use dolls instead of real models at their retrospective showing at the Barbican Art Gallery in London? Find out in August when this book hits worldwide shelves.

Fab Read: Yves Saint Laurent

FabSugar — Wed, 23 Jul 2008 05:00:22 -0700

The passing of Yves Saint Laurent prompted me to devour any readings or articles on the late designer. If you're a YSL fan, I highly recommend Yves Saint Laurent ($13) by Pierre Berge.

This memoir takes us on a journey of Saint Laurent's greatest accomplishments throughout his career. Inside, you'll find over 50 stunning photographs summarizing YSL's inspirational and iconic designs, which made a huge impact in the fashion world. Make sure to check out the touching seven page dedication to the late designer from his partner Berge.

Fab Read: Shop Your Closet – The Ultimate Guide to Organizing Your Closet With Style

FabSugar — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 09:00:22 -0700

Shop Your Closet: The Ultimate Guide to Organizing Your Closet With Style by Melanie Charlton Fascitelli ($14) is cooler than most humans I know; it had a party thrown in honor of its birth! The author, a closet expert, teaches you how to make a safe haven for your clothes so that you can, yes, go shopping in your own closet.

Expect to learn the following: how to clean out your closet, shop for items that flatter your body, make the best wardrobe for your lifestyle, rework your closet space, and store shoes and clothes so that they last longer. You'll also get schooled on how to consign your old stuff, keep your closet neat, and pack smartly. But wait, there's more. Who would have thought one could pack so much useful knowledge in 176 pages?!

Fab Read: Vogue Covers, On Fashion's Front Page

FabSugar — Mon, 07 Jul 2008 16:00:22 -0700

A recent bout of Spring (Summer?) cleaning had me up to my ears in all of my old Vogue magazines. A self-proclaimed fashion junkie, I couldn't bear the thought of tossing these precious mags. My limited living space left me searching for some type of best-of compilation of their delectable works. You could imagine my excitement when I fell upon Vogue Covers: On Fashion's Front Page ($47) by Robin Derrick and Robin Muir.

This book boasts over 200 pages of Vogue's most influential and iconic covers that span over almost 100 years. I'll still keep copies of my personal faves but this book practically sums it up.

For a glimpse to what's inside,

Fab Read: Sex, Love, and Fashion, A Memoir of a Male Model

FabSugar — Thu, 26 Jun 2008 16:00:22 -0700

Kissing and telling is usually taboo. Contrary to that belief, Bruce Hulse decided to dish all about his former life as a Calvin Klein model in his book Sex, Love, and Fashion: A Memoir of a Male Model ($16). The memoir rumors to expose explicit, juicy details on Hulse's exciting life including romantic escapades with models such as Andie MacDowell and Paulina Porizkova to name a few.

If you're itching for a preview, here's a leaked excerpt from his rendezvous with Porizkova: "I arrived at Paulina's hotel room only to find her wearing next to nothing. I was doomed. Within seconds we were all over each other. We completely tore up the room." Did that leave you wanting more? The book is set to release August 5 and is available for preorder.

Fab Read: Chloe Sevigny's Illustrated Opening Ceremony Book

FabSugar — Mon, 23 Jun 2008 02:00:22 -0700

I can't refuse a cool fashion book. Remember the Net-A-Porter notes book that was all interactive and even had little stickers? Here's another collector's item, especially for you Chloe Sevigny fans. We all adored Chloe in the pictures modeling her collection for Opening Ceremony (as well as the '90s high school inspired clothes). They were so quirky cool just like our girl. This photobook, art directed by Chloe, exhibits Mark Borthwick’s ethereal photographs mixed with drawings by Marika Thunder, Benjamin Cho and Spencer Sweeney, to name a few. July 1 you can find this $65 flip book at the New York and LA Opening Ceremony stores, bookstores worldwide and good old amazon.com.

Fab Read: The Golden Age of Couture

FabSugar — Mon, 16 Jun 2008 17:00:22 -0700

I am always reading about the history of fashion to see where designers' inspirations come from and what experiences they went through in creating their artistic masterpieces. The Golden Age of Couture, Paris and London 1947-57 ($31), is highly recommended to any self-proclaimed couture addict. The book takes an in-depth look at Dior's authority on what was considered one of the most hailed fashion decades of all time. It also provides a behind-the-scenes look at famous fashion houses and features coveted couture gowns from the likes of Dior, Balenciaga, Balmain, and Givenchy. Get ready — couture week in Paris is very soon!

Fab Read: Sex and the City Movie Book

FabSugar — Wed, 04 Jun 2008 07:00:22 -0700

Let's see, first there was the HBO series, then the Kiss and Tell book, and then the newly released movie, and now the movie book! Do you see a pattern? Sex and the City: The Movie ($20) by Amy Sohn is sure to quench your SATC thirst with a ton of behind the scenes info on the highly touted film.

This book includes over 300 photos from the movie, commentary from the Fab foursome, and most importantly, the ultimate fashion breakdown to what they wore. So if you're a self-proclaimed Sex and the City lovah, I highly suggest you check it out.

To see what's inside,

Fab Read: Target Underwear and a Vera Wang Gown

FabSugar — Wed, 14 May 2008 02:00:22 -0700

I was perusing the aisles of a local bookstore when a book, cheekily titled Target Underwear and a Vera Wang Gown ($25) made me halt. If author Adena Halpern purposely named the book to draw curiosity, then she sure succeeded!

Halpern, a writer for Marie Claire, rehashes her life, emphasizing the clothing she wore during her most up and down moments. Target undies naturally speaks to her economical side and the Vera Wang gown is the breakup dress she dons to lift her spirits. Adena claims she's not a fashionista, but her biggest date challenge, to never repeat an outfit, proves otherwise. Sounds like my kinda gal!

Do You Read Fashion Books?

FabSugar — Fri, 09 May 2008 00:33:22 -0700

I'm just finishing up Simon Doonan's Eccentric Glamour . . . Source

Do You Read Fashion Books?

Yes. I live, breathe and read fashion.

Sometimes; fashion is more of a shopping thing for me.

Only if it's about my favorite fashion icon or photography.

Fashion is strictly eye candy to me.

Other — do tell!

Fab Read: The Fashion Questionnaire

FabSugar — Mon, 28 Apr 2008 14:00:08 -0700

There are so many questions I'd love to ask designers: "Beyond fashion, what are your other sources of inspiration?" and "What is your favorite decade in terms of fashion?" Because a face-to-face Q&A session is unlikely to happen in this lifetime, Michael Specter's The Fashion Questionnaire ($35) will come in quite handy.

Specter interviews 21 designers like Alber Elbaz (who has a self-portrait at the introduction of his section), Olivier Theyskens, and Diane von Furstenberg. The industry greats dish about their fashion motto, style icons, favorite color, and so on. It's like seeing into their world, minus the intimidating encounter.

Fab Read: The London Cut, Savile Row Bespoke Tailoring

FabSugar — Thu, 17 Apr 2008 09:00:22 -0700

As you know, Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen's contemporary line, The Row, is named after the famous Savile Row of London, a shopping street in central London known for its custom-made tailoring. If you're curious as to why the twins were intrigued by that particular district, then pick up The London Cut: Savile Row Bespoke Tailoring by James Sherwood ($17). It presents both the style and story of a street that continues to inspire fashion today. Icons of Savile Row's past include Cary Grant and John Lennon, and Stella McCartney and Alexander McQueen were both trained there.

Fab Read: Net-A-Porter.com Notes Volume V

FabSugar — Fri, 11 Apr 2008 13:30:22 -0700

I was wrapping up my workday when an unexpected package arrived at my desk. Oh my, it's from Net-a-Porter! I ripped rapidly and came face to face with a medium black book titled Notes, Volume 5. The cover didn't do much explaining so I flipped through, and a found a treasure at my fingertips. You too can get your hands on this free, limited-edition treasure when you buy from the retailer. It has up-to-the-minute info on the Spring/Summer trends, glossy editorials, and a fun article about Studio 54.

One of the coolest parts? It provides a product number next to each item, so you can easily shop the item online. Notice I said one of the coolest; the fancy stickers of runway photos and must-have accessories take the cake. Towards the end, there's a nifty "My Notes" section, a "Wardrobe Planner," and a "My Sizes" sheet. Beyond cool. Thanks, Net-a-Porter!

To take a peruse through the book,

Fab Read: Eccentric Glamour by Simon Doonan

FabSugar — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 04:00:22 -0700

Take it from Diane von Furstenberg when she says, "Who better than Simon to write about glamour and eccentricity? He is both!!!!"

In a nutshell Eccentric Glamour: Creating An Insanely More Fabulous You ($16), is filled with tips and advice from eccentric style guru Simon Doonan.

A seasoned fashion mastermind with over 30 years experience in the industry, Doonan (pictured left in Lanvin pumps), offers a comical and upbeat attitude on how to create your own unique and eccentric look. The newly released book also includes one-on-one interviews with some of most coveted eccentric style icons including Iman, Lucy Liu, and Tilda Swinton.

Fab Read: Audrey Hepburn, A Life in Pictures

FabSugar — Mon, 07 Apr 2008 16:00:22 -0700

A picture is really worth a thousand words when it comes to Audrey Hepburn: A Life in Pictures ($27), by famed fashion designer, Hubert de Givenchy. Hubert takes us through an incredible detailed photographic journey of Audrey's iconic fashion sense of style. This book is packed with amazing first-time reproductions and never seen before family pictures. For those who need a little refresher on the leading lady of Hollywood (shame on you) a nicely detailed biography is also included in the book.

To see a preview of what's inside,

Fab Read: Fashion Illustrations by Fashion Designers

FabSugar — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 16:00:22 -0700

Whether they admit it or not, everyone loves sneaking a peek at something they're not supposed to see.

Fashion historian Laird Borrelli's new book Fashion Illustration by Fashion Designers ($27) facilitates just that, by giving us a look at designer's sketches that aren't meant for public consumption.

The newly released book features 250 original sketches from 50 of the world's top designers, including Christian Lacroix, Karl Lagerfeld, Phillip Lim, Rodarte, Christopher Kane, and Giambattista Valli. I don't know about you, but I can't wait to sink my teeth into this one.
To see a preview of what's inside,

Fab Read: What Would Jackie Do? An Inspired Guide to Distinctive Living

FabSugar — Wed, 19 Mar 2008 16:00:22 -0700

I recently visited Anthropologie and was sidetracked by a fabulous book: What Would Jackie Do? An Inspired Guide to Distinctive Living by Shelly Branch and Sue Callaway ($13). If you admire Jackie O as much as I do, you will fall in love with this book. It offers fun life and fashion tips based on what the authors have learned from Jackie's grandiose life. An example? Book your flight through an airport where the agents are apt to be less savvy about recognizing Prada. Smart!

Fab Read: Bringing Home the Birkin

FabSugar — Thu, 13 Mar 2008 15:00:22 -0700

It's many a girl's dream to own a Birkin bag, and it was Michael Tonello's job to make that dream a reality . . . for those who could afford it.

He spent nearly a decade traveling the world in search of Birkins to resell on eBay, and once bought 140 of the coveted bags in a three month period. Tonello's forthcoming memoir Bringing Home the Birkin ($1 chronicles his hunt for the $8,000+ bag, of which Victoria Beckham is said to own 100. "I began to feel like I was a drug dealer," he said. "You know, there are people that will do almost anything to get one of these bags." Intense reading!

Fab Read: The Black Dress

FabSugar — Fri, 29 Feb 2008 16:00:22 -0800

We all know that black dresses are hardly just reserved for funerals anymore — they're wardrobe staples! In The Black Dress ($15), Dr. Valerie Steele, Director and Chief Curator of the Museum at the Fashion Institute of Technology (my alma mater!), explores the zeitgeist of the black dress and how they've become timelessly chic.

The tome is filled with pages of iconic black dress images pulled from Chanel's collection, Audrey Hepburn's films, and more, plus quotes on the color black from writers, artists, and fashion personalities. Definitely one to check out — especially if you love your LBDs as much as I do.

Fab Read: Celebutantes

FabSugar — Wed, 20 Feb 2008 03:00:22 -0800

Red carpet coverage is so exciting, but imagine how much more thrilling it would be to know what goes on behind the wide smiles and frilly fabrics. Celebutantes ($24), a new book by Ruthanna Hopper (daughter of Dennis Hopper) and Amanda Goldberg (daughter of film producer Leonard Goldberg), is your inside access to the Oscar's red carpet. The endless drama includes which designer will main character Lola Santisi select to create her red-carpet gown. Oh the woes of being a celebrity . . .

Thanks to Saks.com, you can dress like the stylish characters Lola, Kate, and Cricket. Be warned: Looking like a star, even a fictional one, doesn't come cheap.

Fab Read: New York Look Book, A Gallery of Street Fashion

FabSugar — Fri, 15 Feb 2008 15:00:22 -0800

If you want to feel as though you're walking up and down the streets of New York City, invest in New York Look Book: A Gallery of Street Fashion by Amy Larocca ($25). You'll see over 200 unique looks without actually having to travel, or walk. However, if you want to take advantage of the book's recommended boutiques, then you'll obviously have to go there . . . which won't be so bad considering it's the most fashionable apple in the country!

Fab Read: The Little Dictionary of Fashion

FabSugar — Wed, 30 Jan 2008 13:15:22 -0800

If you've ever hankered for style advice from a couturier, look no further. Christian Dior himself reveals that he abhors women who wear high heels with slacks, along with other style bites, in The Little Dictionary of Fashion: A Guide to Dress Sense for Every Woman ($14), which was originally published in 1954.

The handbag-sized book, which is fully illustrated and filled with fun facts like Dior finding the color purple to be "a hue full of danger," was recently republished to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Dior's famous "New Look" collection.

Fab Read: Dressed, A Century of Hollywood Costume Design

FabSugar — Fri, 18 Jan 2008 16:00:22 -0800

If you've had a chance to see Atonement, you'll definitely remember the green backless gown, created by costume designer Jacqueline Durran, that Keira Knightley's character wore in the movie's most pivotal scene.

Dressed: A Century of Hollywood Costume Design by Academy Award-nominated costume designer Deborah Nadoolman Landis ($4 features 100 of Hollywood's most amazing costumes and the characters they helped bring to life. Leaf through costume sketches as well as photographs, some never seen before. I wonder if the dress from Atonement will be making its way into a costume design book . . .

Fab Read: Eco Chic, The Savvy Shopper's Guide to Ethical Fashion

FabSugar — Wed, 02 Jan 2008 13:00:22 -0800

Going green is the wave of the future, but how are you supposed to do it if you don't have a clue where to start? Eco Chic: The Savvy Shopper's Guide to Ethical Fashion by Matilda Lee ($16) can be your guide to dressing greener. It gives the full scoop on this fashion phenomenon, covering which fabrics are harmful to the environment, how to create your own eco-friendly fashions through recycling and savvy shopping, and how to spot garments produced in a sweatshop. Go go green!

Fab Read: Intermix BlackBook, Exclusive 2008 Jet Set Guide

FabSugar — Tue, 01 Jan 2008 04:22:22 -0800

I have yet to be disappointed by Intermix. Their buyers continue to fill their stores with all things fabulous, and now for the second time, their jet setters have compiled the Intermix BlackBook: Exclusive 2008 Jet Set Guide ($1.

Whether your next travel destination is NYC, the Hamptons, Las Vegas, DC, Miami, Boston, Austin, Dallas, Chicago, or LA, let this book be your guide to all things chic: hotels, restaurants, bars, and clubs. So what makes a fashion boutique an authority on travel? Why, fashion and jet setting go hand in hand!

Fab Read: Vintage Fashion

FabSugar — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 16:00:22 -0800

If you've wanted to shop vintage, but have always been unsure how to go about it, consider this book your saving grace. Vintage Fashion: Collecting and Wearing Designer Classics, 1900–1990 ($27) highlights a decade per chapter, going through key designers, signature looks, and important colors, all with plenty of pictures to illustrate.

It also has a shopping guide that offers tips on where to buy vintage and how to care for it, as well as listing the century's most collectible and important designers. With this book in hand, you should feel fully equipped to pounce on the next Fab Redux you like!

Fab Read: Harper's Bazaar Great Style, Best Ways to Update Your Look

FabSugar — Tue, 04 Dec 2007 15:00:22 -0800

To mark their 140th anniversary, Harper's Bazaar has put together a book that will help you perfect your wardrobe and sense of style. Harper's Bazaar Great Style: Best Ways to Update Your Look by Jenny Levin ($1 will be your fashion companion for a long time, especially if you love getting advice and seeing photos of well-dressed celebrities. Among the laundry list of treats: event-appropriate wardrobe tips, accessory must-haves, the 10 commandments of dressing, advice from famous designers, closet essentials, investment pieces, and looking fabulous at any age.

Fab Read: The Fashion Designer Survival Guide, An Insider's Look at Starting and Running Your Own Fashion Business

FabSugar — Tue, 27 Nov 2007 14:00:22 -0800

If you've noticed that there are insurmountable fashion labels out there, you're onto something. Apparently, the employment rate for designers is expected to outpace all other professions through 2008.

If you're thinking of joining the fickle but fabulous industry, The Fashion Designer Survival Guide: An Insider's Look at Starting and Running Your Own Fashion Business ($23) should be your next read. Author Mary Gehlhar, who has consulted on labels like Milly and Alicia Bell, gives behind-the-scenes advice and business information on starting a career as an independent designer.

The book also provides case studies from designers in different stages of their careers and advice from several veteran designers. Once done, you'll be ready to tackle the designer world head on.

Fab Read: Tom Ford

FabSugar — Mon, 19 Nov 2007 14:00:22 -0800

Tom Ford — where does one begin? The super designer undertook the difficult task of breathing life and sex appeal into two major fashion houses and he did it in a decade.

Through over 200 photographs by legends like Richard Avedon and Helmut Newton, Tom Ford by Graydon Carter and Anna Wintour ($92) chronicles his work at Gucci and Yves Saint Laurent from 1994 to 2004. It not only talks about the fabulous clothes and accessories, but also Ford's vision for the design of the brand, including the architecture, store design, and advertising.

What I'm dying to find out is how he increased Gucci's sales tenfold. He must have the midas touch!

Fab Read: Tartan, Romancing the Plaid

FabSugar — Thu, 08 Nov 2007 15:00:22 -0800

Talking about fashion and not mentioning tartan is like talking about fine dining and not bringing up wine. The fabric is an eclectic essential in high fashion, and Jean Paul Gaultier would agree.

Tartan: Romancing the Plaid by Jeffrey Banks and Doria De La Chapelle ($41) tells the story of one of fashion industry's favorite fabrics. It starts with highlighting its humble beginnings and follows through to its current status as an emblem of high fashion and luxurious taste. The book also profiles designers, like Vivienne Westwood, Alexander McQueen, and Burberry, who have incorporated tartan in their work.

Plaid may not be prevalent in your wardrobe, but knowing about its power in fashion can't hurt.

Fab Read: Violet on the Runway

FabSugar — Fri, 02 Nov 2007 08:00:22 -0700

Imagine this for a second: you're as plain as Plain Jane, only taller and skinnier. A lady wearing oversized Chanel shades comes up to you, out of nowhere, and tells you you can be the next It model. That's exactly what happens to Violet Greenfield in Violet on the Runway by Melissa Walker ($10).

She can either take the opportunity of a lifetime or turn it down. And guess what? She takes it and is thrown into the world of stiletto pumps and shady characters; a scene far different than what she's accustomed to. She'll need lots of luck...good luck Violet!

Fab Read: Ralph Lauren Deluxe

FabSugar — Fri, 26 Oct 2007 16:00:22 -0700

Ralph Lauren has defined American style with his designs of luxury, adventure, and beauty. Now, he is sharing his private and public life with his devoted followers in Ralph Lauren Deluxe, $252. The hardcover tome, which comes with a crocodile embossed-leather case, features never-before-seen pictures of Lauren with his family. Lauren also talks about his life, work, and inspiration.

For the second part, Lauren hand-picked his most beloved work, which includes runway shots as well as advertising campaigns. What's more, the introduction features Audrey Hepburn, taken from her 1992 presentation speech at the CFDA awards. This would make for a quite luxurious gift...

Fab Read: Neiman Marcus Pop-Up Book

FabSugar — Wed, 17 Oct 2007 10:00:22 -0700

Neiman Marcus is not only a premiere shopping location, it's also a publishing house. Well, sort of. The Neiman Marcus Pop-Up Book, $125, is a limited-edition tome documenting the retailer's 100 year history. Don't think of it as one of their shopping catalogs in 3D. It's more like an enchanted plot of a young girl's journey through Neiman Marcus from past to present. How fun!

Fab Read: Stylist, The Interpreters of Fashion

FabSugar — Mon, 15 Oct 2007 16:30:22 -0700

In the past couple of years, celebrity stylists like Rachel Zoe have really been thrust into the limelight. But the position has been around since the '30s, and the job description typically covers much more than making sure an actress looks Fab on the red carpet.

Stylist: The Interpreters of Fashion, $48, by Sarah Mower, examines the role of stylists in fashion — from overseeing a magazine's photo shoot to organizing a designer's runway show.

It spotlights 16 stylists, including Vogue Paris editor Carine Roitfeld and Vogue creative director Grace Coddington, but omits celebrity stylists like Zoe and L'Wren Scott, who works with Nicole Kidman. Each featured stylist has their own chapter, filled with their iconic work as well as personal looks at their own lives and tastes.

This is definitely a book I will be curling up with!

Fab Read: Misshapes

FabSugar — Mon, 08 Oct 2007 03:00:22 -0700

If ever there was a time to not judge a book by its cover, this is it. This bland design does not do justice to the eccentricities inside.

Allow me to guide you through the world of MisShapes by Geordon Nicol, $17. It houses a collection of fashion portraits from 2002-2007 taken in MisShapes' night club in New York City. Looks range from punk rockers to artists, downtown kids to musicians, DJs and even celebrities like Agyness Deyn and Chloe Sevigny. There are over 2,000 images so plenty to draw inspiration from!

Side note: I attended a MisShapes party a few years ago and I must say, while the music was bumpin', so was the crowd — literally. It was super over crowded. I know it was the club-to-be but that doesn't mean one shouldn't practice occupancy allowance. They could learn from Studio 54's infamous door policy. Just saying.