I have a very long reading list (humble brag). Joking aside, I really love reading. I have a goal this year of reading 3 books per month.
Last year I was one book short of reaching 2 books per month. So this year we’re dreaming bigger!
The Best Book Genres
When I was younger, I exclusively read fiction. Then after maybe my 20th birthday, I started reading exclusively non-fiction! Now that I’m reflecting, I realize that’s probably the trend for most readers.
Still, I miss the variety in reading. There are millions probably billions of books in existence. Why restrict ourselves to one genre?
Simply put: because some books are easier to digest than others. I love fiction, but I’ve noticed it takes a lot more mental energy than non-fiction. You’re dealing with a lot of characters, often fantastical elements and a new world to learn.
With non-fiction, you’re dealing with a familiar world. It’s the one you already live in! So it’s easier to dive in at any time. Versus fiction, I have to be at my sharpest to fully take it in.
That being said, I still love both genres! Each has a purpose and I never regret picking either up.
But for books about fashion, I’m interested in the real. I want to know fashion’s history, its current impacts, and how to apply its lessons to my closet.
I love non-fiction fashion books for their teachings. I look at it like I’m a fashion student (even though I’m not).
It’s part of my curriculum to read up on fashion’s history. Only when I read will I have the confidence and credentials to actually speak on style.
These books are my lectures. I look at them as guides through the fashion jungle. And I’m super excited to explore!
The Books
The End of Fashion by Teri Agins
Agins details the ways in which the fashion industry has taken cues from consumers to focus more on marketing than any other stage of the fashion process.
They say a fashion line is a balance between art and business. This book is much the same. It frames fashion in the context of moneymaking.
It’s a timely read especially in the age of fast fashion. I’m excited to learn more about the relationship between marketing and fashion!
Brown Bohemians: Honoring the Light and Magic of Our Creative Community by Vanessa Vernon and Morgan Ashley
A celebration of Black and Brown creatives in the fashion space that are too often unacknowledged. I hear much less frequently about non-white designers. I’m excited to learn more Black and Brown names in the industry and see their works!
Also, this book seems like the perfect display piece. It’s mostly visual and large making it great for a coffee table!
Dapper Dan: Made in Harlem : A Memoir by Daniel R. Day
The legendary fashion vanguard’s memoir about his life leading to becoming one of the most influential fashion figures of all time.
I actually recently finished this book. It was phenomenal! What a fantastic read about the “original fashion influencer.”
Dapper Dan is inspirational, kindhearted and brilliant. It was a pleasure to hear about his incredible life’s journey in his own words. Do yourself a favor and read this book!
The One Hundred: A Guide to the Pieces Every Stylish Woman Must Own by Nina Garcia
Nina Garcia details the 100 pieces every woman’s closet must feature and why.
I’m a Project Runway fan. I’ve only started watching recently, but I was immediately taken with Nina Garcia. She’s so stylish and poised and knowledgeable.
I’m excited to learn more from her with this little guide. I’m in the process of refreshing my closet so this read is perfectly timed!
Which of these picks are you most interested in?
