This book is a comprehensive guide for looking one's best. I recently had my third and last child and am preparing to revamp my wardrobe now that my baby-making years are behind me. Wanting to approach this task with intention, I purchased this book (next up: Anuschka Rees's book, The Curated Closet!) but wasn't sure what to expect... In my past life I was a retail fashion buyer and used to sew for fun so I was skeptical, but I can honestly say that reading this book was a worthwhile use of my time. I only gave it 4/5 stars because of the following:

Cons: One of the take aways of the book is to know what colors flatter your personal coloring. The author stresses the importance of having a color wheel and using it when shopping for clothing or makeup, but doesn't outline a method for deciphering the correct colors for each individual. Not everyone has the means for a personal color consultation and could easily become discouraged right off the bat as a result of this oversight. In addition, the individuals pictured in the book, along with their clothing, hair, and makeup - not to mention the photography style itself - appears very dated. Even the front cover of the book is laughably out of fashion. Like a sign store with poor signage, the terrible fashion depicted on the cover and throughout this book made me skeptical of the advice offered within. I would have loved to see updated photos that translate the advice for younger, more modern clientele.

Pros: Though the photos are questionable, they do serve to illustrate the underlying concepts and advice offered. The author clearly and concisely discusses body shape and scale; considers lifestyle and personal style; details fabric choice, cut, and markers of quality; offers a step-by-step guide to closet organization; identifies wardrobe needs and describes how to effectively shop to fill those gaps in one's closet as well as creating a capsule wardrobe.

I particularly liked learning about specific ways in which different silouettes and seams can alter one's appearance (Chapter 4: Clothing Connections) and how those elements relate to my particular body type and coloring (Chapter 5: Make the Most of Your Body). I also appreciated the author's advice in Chapter 10 (Wardrobe Building) on how to find all of the different outfit combinations in my current wardrobe (i.e. "'speed dating' for your clothes") given that I need to do this and, honestly, probably would become easily discouraged had she not properly prepared me for the all out marathon that it will be.

This book gave me a new perspective on how to dress my new, postpartum body and anticipate applying this advice for years to come!

Yes, it looks dated, but this is a book that provides an art criticism approach to wearing clothes. As well as colour and contrast, this book considers line (including lines created by seams), facial feature size and shape, and more.