I’ve been browsing. Here are a two pieces that could translate into something perfect for this fall…

From the runway:

I like the sleeves. I like the belt. I like the cord. I wonder if this pattern would work.

I like this top. I like the sleeves. I like the texture. I like the idea of pairing it with a Hollywood waist.

Both of these are from this designer. I’m hoping to have a fall plan soon. I’ll post when I do.

Some Chapter Headings:
The Red Carpet Questionnaire
My Ten “Dress-Sexy” Commandments
The Four Steps to Sexy
The Fitting Rooms: 1-12

I liked:

• The math I could use to determine my shape. (Much more analytical than just looking at my silhouette.)
• The “Conceal and Reveal Exercise” (pages 23, 24)
• Good definitions of “Skinny fabrics and cuts” (pages 50-51). Now I know what to look for when shopping for fabrics and patterns.
• Mr. Bayou’s method of complimenting your assets before telling you what to hide and how to hide it.
• The comprehensive list of the types of dresses, tops, skirts, pants & jeans, coats & jackets, jewelry & accessories, and shoes that each type should wear and not wear.
• Three perfect options for each size and shape (casual, career, and formal).
• A fashion must-have for each size and shape (mine’s a peplum jacket–guess what new pattern I’m looking for…)
• The most awesome glossary at the end of the book. It includes the definition and line drawing of 100+ styles of shirts, dresses, pants, skirts, jackets, accessories and shoes!

My dislikes:

• Only the first 67 pages applied to me. Then, only 4 more out of the remaining 230+. Of course, to make an entire book about 1 body type would mean that he would have to write 11 other books about the other body types…
• It wasn’t quite as precise as the “math and science” suggest. I actually fall into 1 of 2 categories depending on the day of the week.

Conclusion:
Okay. I confess. This isn’t a sewing book. But, since I am still trying to figure out my style–and I want to make clothes that flatter me–then, this qualifies as a sewing reference book to me. I read this book just before a huge snoop shopping trip. Since I knew Mr. Bayou’s recommendations, I could try on styles to see what I really liked and what I didn’t. Now I have a good idea of the next few pieces I’d like to make.

Would I buy it for myself? Okay, another confession, my sister actually bought this book. And during the 3 hour trip to the beach, we identified all our body types and recommendations. Definitely got our (her) money’s worth!

Would I buy it for a beginner sewer? Yet again, it’s not a sewing book. However, if you are a beginner at garment sewing for yourself and you don’t know where to start, this might work.

Some Chapter Headings:
Leather-Then and Now
Making a Leather or Suede Garment
Selecting Furs and Patterns
What About Mink?

I liked:

• The plain and simple instructions.
• The “clean” explanation of the preparation of leather and suede.
• The list of types of skins and their common uses.
• Specific instructions about which needle to use and how to find the correct machine stitch for sewing with skins.
• Instructions for recycling (restyling) old fur garments

My dislikes:

• Not any really. The book appears to deliver on its title.

Conclusion:
While this book isn’t cute or trendy, I think it serves its purpose right well. If you are ready to tackle a garment of skins, check this one out before you cut.

Would I buy it for myself? Probably not. If I decide to remake an old fur or tackle a genuine leather garment, I’ll just check it out again.

Would I buy it for a beginner sewer? Not a beginner’s book.