Fashion Zeitgeist: Trends and Cycles in the Fashion System - Although it is appealing to think that fashion turns away from conventions, is this really the case? Or are “pioneering” designs simply part of a cyclical revival of forgotten fashions? Looking at some of the most influential designers of the twentieth century–from Yamamoto to Gaultier to Lagerfeld–Vinken considers the politics and philosophies that have been the driving force directing their sense of style. Vinken shows how fashion trends are informed by the past. Chanel, under the direction of Karl Lagerfeld, is viewed as the only fashion house to have remained fresh after one hundred years, yet is this success essentially proof of the self-referential qualities fashion has adopted? What inspired the fetish for labels at the end of the twentieth century? Answering these questions and many more, this thought-provoking book shows how beauty, gender, sexuality, commerce, and dandyism have persisted in defining the fashion system.

Reviews

“Fashion Zeitgeist does not make the auteur and créateur the subject of discussion anymore, but rather the conditions of fashion themselves…Vinken is theoretical but also entertaining and informative. She shows how individual designers reject fashion dictates and make fashion a subject of discussion by examining it against the standards of haute couture.”–Die Tageszeitung

“The spectrum of international top designers whose creations reflect the Zeitgeist is shown in 13 brilliant and amusing detailed analyses.”–Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung

Patternmaking for Fashion Design (4th Edition) - Renowned for its comprehensive coverage, exceptional illustrations, and clear instructions, this hallmark book offers detailed yet easy-to-understand explanations of the essence of patternmaking. Hinging on a recurring theme that all designs are based on one or more of the three major patternmaking and design principles–dart manipulation, added fullness, and contouring–it provides all the relevant information necessary to create design patterns with accuracy regardless of their complexity. Sewing guides included for the pleated trouser (with pattern layout), belt/loops, pockets, and zipper; the jean pant with pockets, countour belt, and fly front; and the gusset. Updated jacket foundation draft includes fabric preparation, interfacing, chest piece, tape control, and shoulder pads. Pant drafts–Trouser draft including pocket, waistband, and loop; dungaree foundation draft; grunge pant draft; and three jean waistline variations including pocket and sewing instruction. Includes fitting corrections for the basic patterns. Unique section on patternmaking for bias-cut garments. For anyone developing their patternmaking skills.

This quintessential guide to patternmaking offers comprehensive coverage, clear illustrations and easy-to-follow instructions, providing users with all the relevant information necessary to create design patterns with accuracy regardless of their complexity. Covers the three steps in the development of design patterns—dart manipulation, added fullness, and contouring—with a central theme that all designs are based on one, or more of these three major patternmaking and design principles. Includes a fashion sketch for each project with an analysis of the design, and focuses on pattern plot and manipulation for developing the patterns. Illustrates several methods for knock-offs, and dedicates new sections on fitting corrections for the basic pattern set and the four pant foundation; menswear; patternmaking for bias-cut garments; revised drafting instructions and standard measurement charts; how to modify the bodice to fit the different sizes of bust cups; constructed support for strapless designs, and more. Presents additional and more challenging design projects for the advanced reader. For dressmakers, home sewers, manufacturing companies, and professionals in fashion design and fashion merchandising.

In Style Magazine - Create a personal style that’s uniquely yours with inspiring ideas from In Style. Discover the best of fashion in every price range and expert beauty advice you can use to create your signature look. Enjoy tips for entertaining with style and intimate looks at your favorite celebrities - their homes, wardrobe, and personal beauty secrets.

Review from Amazon.com
With so many newspapers, magazines, and online blogs from which to choose, I take my indulgence in a single fashion monthly seriously. Three or four years ago, I began to grow weary of the silliness and adolescence so often present in the many magazines that line the newsstand. Wasn’t there a smart and sophisticated fashion monthly out there geared toward the educated upper middle class? After a meticulous search, I found InStyle.

The photography is outstanding and abundant. The writing is spare, witty, and intelligent. No dumbing down, no silly boyfriend articles, sex advice, or gossip columns here.

InStyle’s phone-book-like generous monthly issues feature timely articles on fashion, beauty, lifestyle, celebrity, interior design, and entertaining. All accompanied by award-winning color photography.

The occasional “special issues” are also a bonus. These are extra issues - in addition to the twelve issues per year - that are devoted exclusively to fall fashion, weddings, or holiday entertaining.

If you’ve outgrown the other fashion magazines - either in age or in income - take a look at InStyle. It has your demographic cornered.

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