Ookbay

Exactly what it says on the tin. Easy to understand and a great reference book when I get lost in S and Z twists! 

A book bought for me by my brother. A ‘coffee table’ book. Great images selected by i-D. 160 designers, very interesting read but as the text is so small, I found myself flicking through most of it. One to keep. 

An old school book I bought in a charity shop because I think the old methods are often the best and the most logical. Straightforward book with diagrams and easy to follow instructions with great explanations of different sewing techniques.

For those who don’t know where to start, or who have some experience in pattern cutting and want to keep creating. An easy to follow book, with terminology explained, size charts and pattern cutting for almost every traditional style under the sun. 

A book I used throughout all four years of Uni. Great reference book and very interesting. Photos throughout make it easier to read. Would recommend for any Fashion History classes.

A must have for all fashion students (not just those in final year). Has tips, examples and is simple to follow. Methods to designing and building your own collection. Provides a great framework and foundation for study.

A great book, inspirational, personal and witty. Changed the way I see things and the way I present myself in a male dominated ‘arena’. When I dwell on the past it makes me understand where I could have improved my behaviour for a better outcome for everyone. But with the past aside, I look to the future for better things and sitting at the table. Highly recommended for both men and women. 

A very informative and well laid out book (surprise, surprise!). When I was considering studying interior design, another gift from my brother. I think he’s been trying to tell me that I need to read more. All these years and it’s only now that I understand. I blame the internet entirely. A good book divided into manageable sections which at the time of my little understanding of the subject really opened my eyes. Highly recommend.

Newspaper clippings, photographs and illustrations of the 1930s covering cookery, home, lifestyle, fashion and beauty. A great insight into the trends of the era and very well put together. Fascinating book. 

The 1930s and the approach of war is intertwinned with love and friendship. A great read for this era’s lovers. 

Another on my 1920s guilty pleasures. From Cheshire to London to Hong Kong, to Cannes and many more wealthy destinations. Macclesfield also gets a mention! Some name dropping including Harry Selfridge, The Dolly Sisters and Cecil Beaton. Scandalous and fabulous.

My 1920s phase begins and I delve into this gem. From England to New York City this book is what you need for American glitz and glamour of this era. Romantic and charming, a great book. 

I loved reading this book. The reason I stopped was purely because my journey to and from London had ended and I was to return to my studies. Reading for pleasure was not on my agenda at this time of my life and so I stopped. Thank god I have realised it’s benefits. Let the reading recommence. 

This lack of understanding is entirely within me. I would expect the majority to not even think twice about this book’s meaning. I hear my brother screech ‘but it’s so obvious’. The book is beautifully put together and I would recommend the read (even if, to explain it to me in a way i’ll understand).

An inspiring book which tells of the growth of Poppy King Industries and the rise of one of Austrailia’s most famous entrepreneurs. A manual for those wanting to start up a business but don’t know where to start or even if their idea has much credibility.

A large book with brightly coloured and well edited pages. A pleasure to look through. Writing is kept to a minimum to allow you to fully absorb the images. I scanned some of the pages and they make great posters. 

Bought for me by my Brother. A comical book which pokes fun at the silly fashion rules which we over hear and pass on. As children listening to mothers and grandmothers. And as students gossiping around school. Forget the rules and just get on with it.