5 Fashion Books You’ll Love to Read This Summer
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Summer is the perfect time to relax and why not educate yourself a bit with my special selection of fashion books that you will devour during your vacation.
Before the madness of back-to-school and its frenetic pace kicks in, I propose a few titles of works that I found fascinating to review the masterpieces of renowned designers, the must-have pieces, the quirks of the fashion world, or even the trends seen through a contemporary sociological lens.
Which book will you be tempted by? It’s time to stop scrolling and let yourself be carried away by these readings that tell the wonderful world of fashion.
All About Fashion, an overview of movements and masterpieces, by Marnie Fogg
All about fashion from the last two millennia condensed into a comprehensive book. Among the 150 iconic pieces analyzed in this book, you will learn everything about the kimono, Marie Antoinette’s wigs, and even sportswear. A must-read classic to stay ahead of the knowledge curve for back-to-school.
The illustrations and timelines make it a very explanatory book that can serve as an introduction for those who love fashion and want to know more about the subject without quite knowing where to start.
One of the essential fashion books written by consultant Marnie Fogg, author of over twenty books on the subject.
Vivienne Westwood Runways, by Alexander Fury
The designer who passed away last December marked her era by reinterpreting the famous English check look using tweed and tartan.
The year of her death, she ranked fourth among the most influential British artists of the last fifty years (Source: Sky Arts).
Strongly influenced by English punk, she, who was close to the Sex Pistols, became the most iconic designer in England who was able to represent the claims and spirit of freedom of her time through her creations.
She was one of the first, as early as the 1970s, to advocate for fairer fashion, showcasing her ecological and social commitment in her provocative style.
The book features over 1,100 photographs as well as biographical texts written by Vivienne Westwood and her husband Andreas Kronthaler.
This summer, see fashion through a punk lens by diving into the memories of the queen of English fashion, from her first show in 1981 to the breakdown of her famous pieces.
The Lagerfeld Mystery, by Laurent Allen-Caron
The life of the most French German designer as told by his close ones. With this little pocket book, discover the secrets and mysteries of the fashion genius who passed away in 2019.
Karl Lagerfeld once stated, “I want to be an apparition. It appears, it disappears.” Creative director at Chanel from 1983 until his death, he managed to maintain a mysterious aura throughout his life.
Known for being a hard worker, he was a pioneer in the use of fur. At Fendi in 1965, he began using moleskin, rabbit, and squirrel for coats. While this may shock today, we should not blame Karl Lagerfeld, as at that time, animal welfare and climate issues were not at all a concern.
This unauthorized biography was published a few days after his death.
Fashion is Political, by Mélody Thomas
Is fashion political? Yes, according to journalist Mélody Thomas, who offers us a modern and feminist fashion book in the form of an inclusive lexicon.
Composed of 27 entries such as ageism, cultural appropriation, or body positivity, the book fits into a contemporary sociological trend to understand the stakes of today’s fashion.
You will see your wardrobe in a new light after reading this book when you realize how political our clothing is and how much it reveals about us and our beliefs.
Illustrated by Eloïse Heinzer, you will love this progressive work if you are a fashionista interested in the impact of fashion on our current world.
“Pass Me the Champagne, I’ve Got a Cat in My Throat,” by Loïc Pringent
After the hilarious “I Love Fashion but It’s Everything I Hate“, the quirkiest fashion journalist Loïc Pringent has returned with a new work on the small, improbable phrases gleaned during events.
The book dates from 2019, but it remains a perfect book on fashion to laugh at the ironic and funny remarks of those at the heart of the catwalks. For me, it’s the ideal book to enjoy on the beach while working on getting your best tan.
In a consistently kind tone and with sharp humor, Loïc Pringent has captured in this little book all the caustic remarks that say so much about our time, “I was so hungry I forgot to Instagram my meal.”
The best book to escape on vacation while looking forward to the next fashion week.
This list is, of course, far from exhaustive and features recent books on fashion that can easily slip into your beach bag. No more excuses for not being on top of fashion culture when school resumes!
