Book Review: The Fashion File

“The Fashion File: Advice, Tips, and Inspiration From the Costume Designer of ‘Mad Men,'” Janie Bryant shares the clothing philosophy behind each of the gorgeous characters and then extrapolates how the ideas can be applied to everyday dressing. This book is a must have for every coffee table and such a great conversation starter. I was enthralled will all the style advice that I learned just by flipping through the pages. Everyone has different body types and Janie goes into detail about what would look good on you. everything from the perfect must have handbag styles to making sure that you get that wiggle 🙂 (you must read to find out)!! She talks about how your style should evolve but not at a great expense. You want to add accent pieces and an investment garment occasionally to refresh your options and palette. Make style and adventure and have fun with it. Build up your confidence and keep being inspired.

Well I must admit, that I am off to Macy*s now to go and expand my palette and add to my closet!

As for dressing well, Bryant says, “I think it’s about understanding your body and feeling great about whatever shape you are… learning to appreciate everything about yourself and wearing things that make you feel fantastic.”

Emmy-winning costume designer Janie Bryant creates all of the looks seen on TV’s Mad Men. She has worked on numerous films and TV shows. In 2005, she won an Emmy for her period costumes on HBO’s Deadwood and she took home the prestigious Outstanding Costume Design award from the Costume Designers Guild in both 2009 and 2010.

Monica Corcoran Harel is a Los Angeles-based style writer who has reported on fashion and the culture of keeping up appearances for InStyle, Variety, Forbes and the Style section of the New York Times. She also consults as a fashion expert for Project Runway.