When I first heard that my friend Naomi Thompson had been asked to write a book about vintage clothes in the ‘Style Me Vintage’ series, I was, naturally, spitting with jealousy. After about five minutes of self-centred green-eyed-monstering (but *I* want to be a vintage book author *tooooo*), I was hugely pleased for her. And when I saw how much work she was putting into it, I was quite glad that it was her rather than me.
I was similarly torn when she said she would be sending me a review copy. Obviously, I was thrilled to have a new vintage book to read and review. But I was also scared that it might not be good. In which case, I was going to have to find a tactful way to say that I didn’t think much of what my friend had written.
PHEW. No need to be diplomatic. I loved it. I read it in one sitting. I got to the end and wished there had been more.
The book itself is extremely pretty, with an elegant textured cover, selections of vintage fabrics used as backgrounds, arrangements of accessories, and of course era-specific models in covetable vintage outfits. The book is meant to be an easy introduction to vintage for beginners, but even as a seasoned vintage-lover there were things I didn’t know, and tips I will find handy next time I am out shopping.
It begins with a section on basics, then each era comes with an overview and tips on what to look for, along with a photographed example of day and evening wear. Throughout, there are nifty little pointers on how to get the look easily, and it finishes with advice on underwear, repairs, and garment care.
And did I mention that that Penny Dreadful Vintage gets a plug in the Recommended Reading section? Wheeee!
My only disappointment is that I wish it had been ten times the size, so I do hope Naomi writes another book on the subject soon. .
Style Me Vintage – Clothes is currently available on Amazon for the insultingly reasonable price of £5.89, so I highly recommend snapping up a copy now if you haven’t already done so.
Cute little book!
love your amigas photos.
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How wonderful for your friend. I can’t wait to get that book out of the library!
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I bought it, very pretty but I also wished it had been a bit longer! Really lovely photographs and models though, and she’s obviously very knowledgeable. I spotted your mention too. It’s a nice addition to my library. ‘It’s Vintage Darling’ by Christa Weil is my favourite all round vintage book – so much on what to look for and learning how to assess clothes by touch.
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How fab to get your name in print! That does look a pretty book and a great price, too. I agree with Lakota, “It’s Vintage Darling” is a great read. x
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Had a look at it in Liberty last week – a lovely tome. May well treat myself after Lent.
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You could toally write a book tooooooo!
I’ve read a couple of great reviews of this,I must get a copy!
XXX
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