Tim Gunn: A Guide to Quality, Taste and Style (Tim Gunn's Guide to Style)

I started watching Tim Gunn's Guide to Style on Bravo a while ago and loved the show so much, I decided to buy his book. I think it's one of the best purchases I have ever made.

Some of the other reviews say this book is a waste of time, that it's all such obvious advice. That may be true for some people. But for me it was not. I felt I was stuck in a fashion rut. I'm 22 years old, almost 23, about to be married to a graphic designer, and I feel like I look like I just walked off my high school campus. I'm a jeans and tank top kind of girl. As wonderfully comfortable as those clothes are, that's just what they are: "comfort clothes", items I wear because I'm afraid to step out of the box. When I get married I want to be able to be the stylish wife on the arm of my husband, not someone that looks like a teenager. I want to be taken seriously.

Well, Tim's book was an easy to digest read. He has a lot of great advice that even made me feel better about myself. Like his views on being a certain size. He says, buy the dress that fits well and makes you look great, don't beat yourself up about the fact that it's a 10 and you're "supposed to be a 5!" He says, go home and cut the tag out if you must, but you're going to look so much better in something that actually fits, than something you try to squeeze into simply because you don't want to admit to yourself that you have to wear a 10. And he has some good information on department store sizing that makes a lot of sense.

The book flows a lot like the style of his show. He teaches you how to cull the clothes in your closet, explains how things should be fitting your body while offering tips for ladies who want to minimize their large bust, or downplay their tummy, etc., offers some style inspiration from some famous ladies, and then preps you for shopping by explaining the 10 most important and basic items you should have in a wardrobe, he goes on to explain the different places for shopping (the mall, the outlet, boutiques, etc.) and what each store does best, he ends with fashion ideas for special occasions (weddings, funerals, cocktail parties, etc.) and in the back their is a glossary of fashion/fabric terms, so if you don't know what blouson means, it explains it there.

Bottom Line: I found the book extremely helpful. It was like having a good friend counsel me and hold my hand the whole way. If you fancy yourself stylish and in need of no fashion help, then this book is not for you. But if you're like me and interested in trying to update your look by learning how to form a basic wardrobe and what works and doesn't, then I would highly recommend the book.

I admire Tim Gunn for his even consideration of all people and all situations. His respectfull approach to
the reader allows us to let him in our private concerns for our "image" and his suggestions feel like words
from a good friend. I intend to re-read this book, and keep it on hand over the years for a re-newed
inspiration. Excellent for any age.
I actually wish I could write to him and let him know how gratefull I am.

This is a wonderful book. It's especially wonderful because it's like reading a book after seeing the movie. The book enhances his show, and helps you understand what Tim is really trying to teach us. It's funny, and if you love Tim Gunn, you'll absolutely love this book. I'm dressing better and feeling better about myself and my closet!

Unless you know some of the designers, one won't be able to understand whom he is speaking of in this book. Really can not recommend this book even though I thought it would be a updated version of A Guide to Elegance: For Every Woman Who Wants to Be Well and Properly Dressed on All Occasions. Even though the book is a bit dated, it is VERY helpful in getting one properly dressed from A-Z. Tim Gunn is very stylish, hands down. I would find it more helpful to hear from some of the women that went through this *guide to style* currently. Not just a few days or weeks after. How about a year or two after the fact.

Now to be fair, there is a dictionary in the back or the book for some of the things he mentions but not all and my mind is left spinning of what is he talking about? ...sorry, I am just a common ignorant girl. I have to be careful in my station. (my fair lady)

Advice...check this out of the library before purchasing... will be donating my copy. But if you like high style and know all of the names... bully for you! ...as Tim says.

Style has to do with how you present yourself to the world and shows your personality. You don't have to be super good looking to present yourself well to others, and style is something you can make all your own (it doesn't have to mean keeping up with whatever the latest fad is). This book has great style tips that are very helpful! I also highly recommend another bestseller - How to be a Super Hot Woman: 339 Tips to Make Every Man Fall in Love with You and Every Woman Envy You Both books will inspire you!