Going Through a Fashion Crisis? Brush Up With These Style Tips From the Experts

By Rishbha Bhagi July 30, 2012 12:36 AM EDT
Learn how to dress like the cast of "Mad Men" from Janie Bryant's fun-filled book

Reuters (Photo: Reuters / Reuters)

Some viewers prefer Michael Kors. And others lean towards Nina Garcia. But Project Runway fans can all agree on one thing: Tim Gunn knows how to make it work.

In many ways, Tim has been the breakout star of Project Runway. Currently the chief creative officer at Liz Claiborne, he knows how to offer contestants practical advice for mainstream consumers. So it's no surprise that his upcoming book, A Guide to Quality, Taste, and Style, includes everyday tips on improving your posture and finding a fashion mentor.

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Unfortunately, Tim's guide isn't available yet. So we decided to brush up on our fashion knowledge with some of our other favorites.

Parisian Chic: A Style Guide by Ines de la Fressange

Always wondered how Parisians are so stylish? Check out model and designer Ines de la Fressange's Parisian Chic for the answer. Fressange, who was put on the International Best Dressed List Hall of Fame in 1998, has always represented that elusive French mystique. The book includes her personal drawings, helpful photographs, affordable fashion essentials and tips on how to bring Parisian touches into your office and home.

Kate Moss: Style by Angela Buttolph

Kate will forever be remembered for her iconic Calvin Klein campaign. She broke every boundary, including the belief that supermodels have to be 5-foot-10 or above. Now Angela Buttolph's book delves into Kate's wardrobe and its evolution, sharing the secrets of her style success. Including commentary by designers like Dolce & Gabbana, Donna Karan, and Marc Jacobs, Buttolph's book helps you achieve Kate's famous trendsetting style.

Style A to Zoe: The Art of Fashion, Beauty, & Everything Glamour by Rachel Zoe

Rachel Zoe is arguably one of the most famous celebrity stylists, with a high-rated reality show, The Rachel Zoe Project. Having worked with Nicole Richie, Demi Moore, Keira Knightley, Eva Mendes and numerous other A-list celebs, Rachel shares the secrets behind Hollywood glamour. She tells readers how to vamp up their style and live large, even if it's on a tight budget.

Annie Leibovitz at Work by Annie Leibovitz

Renowned portrait photographer Annie Leibovitz has spent more than 40 years in the industry, perfecting her craft. Now her book explores the important relationship between fashion and imagery. Choosing the right outfit for a night on the town can be the difference between a great photograph and not - and this book delves into how to make that perfect picture happen. Including about 90 images, the book looks at style from an objective point of view - the camera - and teaches the reader how to make the most of what they have.

You Know You Want It: Style-Inspiration-Confidence by Eric Daman

CW's Gossip Girl is known for its covet-worthy designer duds. Costume Designer Eric Daman may not be able to endow you with a celebrity-style budget, but he can help decode the rules of Park Avenue chic. Though Blair's and Serena's closets are lined with Chanel and Marc Jacobs, confidence is the most important thing for an uptown girl, Eric says. Learn how to rock nearly any look with poise, charm and sass from the king of NYC flair.

The Fashion File: Advice, Tips, and Inspiration from the Costume Designer of Mad Men by Janie Bryant

We finally get a peek inside the enormous vintage closet of Mad Men's costume designer Janie Bryant, and the glimpse does not disappoint. Janie goes into the beautiful retro looks of the Mad Men cast and helps readers incorporate the vintage styles into their everyday wardrobes. It's not just about finding the 1960s silhouette, she says. It's about finding the cut that's right for you. If you have an hourglass shape like Joan's, highlight your waist. If you're narrow like Betty, try a flared frock to add some curves.

Take the time to do the reading and come September you'll surely be ready for that closeup.

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