There is no denying that fashion books are critical to a comprehensive education on the subject. Whether you’re looking to learn style fundamentals, get an overview of significant trends and movements, or research different sartorial eras, there is a book out there for you. Are you searching best fashion books that are crucial to fashion education? To help your journey into fashion exploration begin, here is a list of books about fashion design to consider:
1. The Little Dictionary of Fashion by Christian Dior
The Little Dictionary of Fashion is a small but handy book. It was designed by Christian Dior, one of the most famous French fashion designers and couturiers.
The book consists of definitions of words related to fashion and clothing. The first edition was published in 1958 and has been revised several times since then. This article will tell you more about this dictionary and its history.
This iconic text from one of the biggest names in couture provides insight into the fundamentals behind French dressing. It also introduces many designer brands, techniques, and materials used in garment construction.
2. Vogue On: Yves Saint Laurent by Valerie Steele
It is a comprehensive overview of Yves Saint Laurent’s impact on fashion. Yves Saint Laurent (1936–2008) was one of the most influential designers in fashion history. He created haute couture collections that were entirely his own and had a lasting impact on trends and style.
This book is a comprehensive study of his life and work, featuring dozens of important pieces from his vast archive — including the famous Mondrian dress — as well as photographs, sketches, and notes from the designer himself. This book is a must-read for anyone looking to learn more about the iconic designer and his creative vision.
3. The World in Vogue: People, Parties, and Places by Hamish Bowles
Hamish Bowles is a British-born American journalist and former editor of Harper’s Bazaar. He currently serves as global editorial director for the fashion magazine Vogue. His work has appeared in publications such as The New York Times Magazine, The New Yorker, Vanity Fair, and W magazine.
The World in Vogue is an insightful look at fashion history from the perspective of a longtime editor at one of the world’s most prestigious magazines. The book is divided into six chapters that examine different aspects of fashion and its impact on society: “Vogue’s First 100 Years,” “Dress Up,” “The Glamour Girls,” “The Party People,” “The Royals,” and “Fashionable Places.” Each chapter includes an introduction by Bowles that explains his thoughts on the subject matter at hand.
It is a photographic journey through the legendary pages of Vogue magazine. With its stunning images, this book is perfect for those who want to know various aspects of fashion history and culture throughout time.
4. WGSN Trend Forecasting Book
WGSN is one of the world’s most influential and respected trend-forecasting agencies. We help brands, retailers, wholesalers, designers, filmmakers, and more stay ahead of the curve by delivering the most creative and relevant content daily.
This volume is an essential guide to understanding seasonal trends, color palettes, silhouettes, and prints in today’s fashion world. It also provides an analysis of changing consumer behaviors across multiple sectors.
Our team of over 100 trend forecasters is all experts in their fields who spend their days researching, analyzing, and predicting future trends that will impact business across all industries. The WGSN Trend Forecasting Book is an essential resource for anyone interested in what’s next in fashion, beauty, and design.
5. Our Bodies, Our Clothes: The Fabric of Everyday Life by Monica L. Miller
This book is a perfect resource for teachers, students, and anyone interested in the subject. It is a fascinating exploration of the relationship between our bodies and clothes. Through her research, Miller argues that clothing is an expression of identity and can be used to communicate various social messages.
The author does a fantastic job of weaving together history, sociology, and psychology to make this topic come alive. She explains how clothing is so much more than just something to wear and can affect our self-perception, relationships with others, and overall well-being.
6. The History Of Costume And Personal Adornment by Mary Evans
This scholarly text provides an in-depth look at fashion evolution from ancient civilizations to modern-day trends. In addition, it features information about various ethnic dress styles, illustrations, and diagrams for more detailed understanding.
The earliest garments were made from skins, furs, and feathers. The first clothes were worn as protection against the cold. Later they became more elaborate, with decoration added for comfort or warmth.
In this book, you will read about the history of clothing and how it has changed over time. You will also learn about the materials used to make clothes (such as cotton) and how people have decorated their bodies throughout history.
7. Dior By Dior: The Autobiography Of Christian Dior by Christian Dior
When Christian Dior died in 1957, he left behind a legacy of fashion that still influences the world today. This book is the story of how Christian Dior came to create one of the most iconic fashion brands in history. This book covers everything from his childhood in Normandy, France, to his early career as a window dresser at La Samaritaine department store and later at Balenciaga.
Christian Dior’s love of fashion was evident from an early age, but when he met his muse and future wife, Doriane Boulay, he began to pursue his desire to become a designer. Thus, it is an intimate view of the life and works of the legendary fashion designer. It covers Christian Dior’s experiences and influences, inspirations, and the motivations behind his iconic designs. In addition, he shares his thoughts on love, life, and family. He also speaks about how he got into the industry and became successful.
8. The Sartorialist by Scott Schuman
It is an informative collection of street-style photos from worldwide. This book is perfect for learning about current trends and how people interpret them uniquely. Scott Schuman is a photographer and blogger who has been documenting the fashion scene in New York City since 2005. His book, The Sartorialist: Closer Look, captures his daily life as a street photographer and offers fans a closer look at his work.
9. The Vanity Fair Diaries 1983–1992 by Tina Brown
A diary about magazine making during an era when print was still king. Follow the fascinating journey of former editor-in-chief Tina Brown as she recounts her high-profile encounters with some of the biggest fashion icons at the time.
The book offers candid insight into what it takes to impact a rapidly changing industry and the vital role relationships play. It also reveals what it was like to lead a team of creative professionals when digital disruption threatened traditional print media models.
10. Bazaar: A Decade of American Fashion by Paul Wilmot
This book chronicles some of the most iconic looks of the time and their influence on modern trends today. It is an insightful and comprehensive look at the fashion trends from the mid-1980s to the mid-1990s that have defined American style. The book takes readers through decades of iconic designs and styles, examining what has made them so popular.
From statement pieces to classic silhouettes, Wilmot looks at what makes certain items stand out as timeless and what will become beloved classics for years to come. He also highlights emerging trends amongst the most cutting-edge designers, what new materials are being used, and what colors are currently claiming the spotlight. With interviews from renowned designers, editors, models, photographers, and industry leaders, this book provides an insider’s view into the fashion world.
Essentiality Books about Fashion Design
These 10 books about fashion design are essential for anyone looking to gain a deeper knowledge and appreciation for fashion. With each one providing unique insights, this list will help you broaden your knowledge on everything related to style and design. Happy reading!
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