Reading Maze For Book Reviews

This is a very interesting analysis of the psychological and sociological aspects of power dressing and its impact on women’s clothing more generally.  Female politicians in the public eye are subject to plenty of scrutiny from the media and how they dress is endlessly analysed.  Women in power often use fashion to convey a particular message, knowing that it is something that sets them apart from their male counterparts.

The book is written by an experienced fashion journalist who provides his perspective on how clothing choices can influence the careers of female politicians and first ladies.  There are chapters covering the different trends in power dressing over the years, as well as detailed breakdowns of the fashion choices of more than 50 high-profile female figures.  Female prime ministers, presidents, MPs, royals and first ladies from over 30 countries worldwide are included. These include contemporary figures such as Michelle Obama, Carla Bruni-Sarkozy, Queen Rania of Jordan and Angela Merkel, as well as more historical figures like Imelda Marcos, Eva Perón, and Margaret Thatcher.

The text is accompanied by numerous photographs to illustrate each of the subjects covered. As well as the author’s perspective, the book also includes comments from commentators on each woman’s personal style and how it has changed over time. 

This book is a fascinating read for anyone interested in women in politics, fashion, political history and feminism as it neatly charts the rise and influence of women in the political arena through the prism of clothing.

Esquire Magazine, which is aimed at stylish professional men, produces an annual clothing and accessories issue called “The Big Black Book”. This book is the hardback version of that fashion guide, a more permanent reference guide for all men interested in looking good.  With plenty of photographs and a text written with Esquire’s trademark wry and sophisticated humour; it is an easy read for anyone interested in male fashion.

The book includes detailed information on how to dress and accessorise from top to toe, including suits, shirts, jewellery and watches, ties, shoes and all other accessories.  There is advice on what styles and fabrics to wear on different occasions, as well as how to dress to suit particular body types. Drawing on stylish men in the public eye for inspiration, the book will help you find a style that works for you.

The book includes step-by-step guides on finishing off your outfit with a perfectly knotted tie and the best grooming techniques.  It also explores sartorial faux pas so that readers know what to put with what and what items most definitely do not work together.

The book is compact at 224 pages and can be easily referred back to. The friendly language makes it an approachable read for those who think that high fashion is not for them, and it has some great tips on how to dress more stylishly with minimal tweaking to your existing wardrobe. It would make a great gift for any special man in your life.