Some Book Recommendations

As a teacher-librarian by day, I am so lucky to be surrounded in books. And, by kids who are excited to read them!

If you were to look at my nightstand at the moment, you would (no surprise) see a pile of books. A couple fiction and most always some sort of book relating to style.

In the library, I love to encourage my students to also read non-fiction. You can learn so much about a topic of interest and just read that parts that speak to you.

Here's why I'd recommend picking up a style book (and if you are reading this blog I am guessing you are at least somewhat interested in learning more...):

1) It can teach you a tip or trick that you can apply to your daily life to help make getting dressed easier

2) You can sit back, read a small portion and not worry about when you need to get back to it. Take in only what applies and speaks to you! People often tell me they are too busy to read, this kind of a book isn't a huge time commitment.

Here are a couple I've had for a while that I keep revisiting as their message continues to feel relevant and helpful:

Lessons from Madame Chic: 20 Stylish Secrets I Learned While Living in Paris by Jennifer L. Scott

If you have been enjoying the Marie Kondo Netflix series or enjoyed her book, you may also appreciate some of these lessons from Madame Chic. Here, Scott introduces the concept of the Ten Item Wardrobe which she has gone on to blog about and reveal in multiple seasons. While, this is not a practice I have embraced, it helped me be more thoughtful about the pieces hanging in my wardrobe and how to get more cost-per-wear out of my investments. Also the idea of quality over quantity (at any budget point) resonates. This book also covers diet and exercise, beauty, and how to live well. If you'v ever marvelled at what seems to be the effortlessly glamorous Parisian way of life, this little tutorial may also be for you.

The Truth About Style by Stacy London

About 6 years ago, I was so fortunate to take part in Stacy London's Style For Hire stylist training program. If you have watched What Not To Wear you are probably familiar with Stacy. She is a powerhouse and she knows her stuff. But, this book isn't like the TV show (there's no throwing clothing in a giant garbage can). She is genuine and passionate about using personal style to fuel self confidence and celebrate who we really are. She illustrates this through her own story as well as in a series of detailed “start-overs” with eight real women, demonstrating how discovering personal style can help overcome emotional obstacles. The women are so diverse in their needs, body shapes, background and lifestyles. There is something in here for everyone. You can learn many style tips and tricks as well as witness the transformative power of style.

What have you been reading and loving lately? I can always find a little room on the nightstand...

Lori