Book Review: Style by Kate Spade

Title: Style
Author: Kate Spade
Pages: 107


At the beginning of summer, one of my goals was to become more competent in fashion. While I am no stranger to fashion, there is still plenty for me to learn. In addition to the history of fashion, I hope to study about the style icons who have made fashion what it is today. We can all benefit from taking style cues from the likes of Coco Chanel, Audrey Hepburn, and Grace Kelly. First on my list of reads is Style by my always favorite Kate Spade.

Kate Spade’s Style is a fabulous starting point for anyone with an interest in fashion. Those who are fans of Spade’s bright collection of handbags and accessories will find this book simply irresistible. While Style is a lighthearted read, it is brimming with interesting facts. From laying out essential fashion terminology to providing tips on the appropriate style for every occasion, Spade has got you covered. She does an excellent job of starting with the basics and defining her sources of inspiration. Whereas similar books on style serve merely as how-to-guides, Spade’s goes a step further, providing readers with a fresh and unique outlook of the fashion world. Explaining to readers that style is anything but uniform, Spade wants readers to understand that style is a reflection of their personalities. Modern architecture, books, movies, and art are all things that inspire her.

“Style can’t be purchased.”
- Andy Spade

After covering the basics of finding and developing a style, Spade provides thoughtful commentary on color combinations, the moods they convey, and how you can seamlessly pull off any color. While you may think pink is just pink, Spade proves that there is so much more to this girly hue. Depending on the shade, pink can come across as either cutesy or grown-up. Not only that, but it is also symbolic of romance, friendship, and honor. Who would have thought? Part of style is rooted in the mixing and matching of colors. By understanding color and it’s interaction with other colors, you open your style up to so many possibilities.

Ever wonder what constitutes as appropriate attire for so called “casual Fridays?” Spade answers this question in addition to many others as she offers a plethora of tips for every occasion. From the beach to a weekend getaway in the mountains, style is always essential and practical. With the help of Spade, you will never make a fashion faux pas again. Just when you think it could not get any better, she even provides a rundown of every girl’s favorite: accessory style. Handbags, sunglasses, jewelry...and of course shoes! To keep us chic year round, the wardrobe staples necessary for fall, winter, spring, and summer are included as well. If not already a fashion connoisseur, then you surely will be by the end of Style.

“You can learn how to tie a shoe. You can learn how to rebuild an engine. You can learn how to speak Swahili with a French accent. But style is innate.”
- Andy Spade

Finally, but certainly not least, we come to one of the most important aspects of Style. Anyone who is looking for a career in fashion, whether it is in styling, journalism, or designing needs to know the correct jargon for the various fabric types, clothing silhouettes, and clothing details. There is nothing more embarrassing than using an incorrect term for a tartan print because of a lack of knowledge in fashion. Word of wisdom: learn the lingo and succeed in the long run.

Summer is the perfect time to sit back, relax, and read a good book. Whether you are a fashion newbie or veteran, Style is a must. Kate Spade’s witty sense of humor and the occasional input from her husband Andy will keep you coming back for more.

Enjoy!