Monday, December 29, 2003
In-depth comments on fit and body-type issues fill the handy little book.
SCRIPPS HOWARD
Authors Kim France and Andrea Linett know that putting together an outfit has little to do with chance. They have written "The Lucky Shopping Manual: Building Your Wardrobe Piece by Piece" ($30, Conde Nast Publications).
France is the editor in chief of Lucky, a popular fashion magazine, and Linett is creative director for the publication.
"Unlike in Lucky, there's nothing in this book that you can explicitly buy," the authors explain in the book's introduction. "Instead, use the 'Manual' to help you make outfits with all the things you already own (and also help out when it's time to shop). Like Lucky magazine, this book is meant to be read, tossed in your bag, consulted, re-consulted, marked up and generally trashed."
The 14-chapter book is much like the magazine, except it is smaller and thicker and sports a harder back. Grouped clothing items float on white backdrops and helpful hints on creating stylish ensembles abound. Where the title differs from the periodical is in its in-depth comments on fit and body-type issues.
Skirting the issue
The first chapter is devoted to skirts. Here we learn that A-lines "look great on everyone," a pencil is "the sexiest skirt there is" and "a long skirt is Cinderella-graceful."
The long skirt can be somewhat tricky to wear. The book warns: "One false move and you're off to the nunnery. A long skirt looks old-fashioned paired with a maximum coverage sweater. For evening, get a little sexy above the waist with a pretty sleeveless top or simple tank."
Chapter 7 touches on pants, from cargo to evening. The writers' pick for everyone is the menswear-style pant. When it comes to fit, beware of "grandpa-butt," they write. To avoid this, go for pants that are slim through the hips and seat.
In many of the chapters there is a section called "In the Fitting Room," which helps you get the most out of a visit to the changing area. When a woman tries on pants, she needs to wear or bring shoes that go with them. Also she should sit down in them to see if they are too tight at the thighs.
In the bag
Chapter 9 looks at handbags. According to the guide, a purse wardrobe should contain a black or dark brown bag, small work bag, work tote or brief case, a casual tote, an evening bag, and one small going-out bag (big enough for lipstick, keys and a wallet).
Should one of them be a "status bag?" If a bag with colorful L's and V's plastered all over it has your name written on it, "be sure not to buy a trendy shape; choose a classic that will pack a punch for many years."
In the shoes chapter the most flattering footwear to the leg are chosen. Picks include flip-flops and thongs (create a long line), ankle-straps (make ankles look thinner by defining them), classic pumps (show and cover enough of the foot to shape it) and fitted knee boots (they elongate the calves).
The book also profiles the authors' personal styles.
France is a "downtown classic" with shoe tastes that go from funky Timberlands to sophisticated Christian Louboutin pumps. Linett, the epitome of "untucked glamour," is a fan of vintage pieces.
Good advice and good savings.