Book Review: The One Hundred
The One Hundred: A Guide to the Pieces Every Stylish Woman Must own Nina Garcia, author
A woman never goes anywhere but the hospital without packing makeup, clothes, and jewelry. Grace Kelly in Rear Window
A business-savvy woman must be fashionable in the boardroom and at the after work gathering thrown for her when she lands that million-dollar client. With all the boutiques, brands and bargains in the world, one can be overwhelmed when building that perfect wardrobe. Nina Garcia’s new book, “The One Hundred: A Guide to the Pieces Every Stylish Woman Must Own,” provides some clarity in this insane yet amazingly fun world of fashion. “The One Hundred” is a follow-up to Garcia’s “The Little Black Book of Style” and is filled with must-haves. From the A-Line Dress to the Zippered Hoodie, Garcia uses her knowledge from a long career in the fashion industry to help readers assess the 100 timeless pieces that every women should have in her closet.
Even if you are new to fashion, “The One Hundred” has you covered with gorgeous fashion forward illustrations by Ruben Toledo, quotes from fashionistas, designers and classic movies, and the Fashion 101 snippets. These snippets provide a deeper look into the history of some of the pieces on her list. You may be surprised at what you find out: that favorite pair of blue jeans (that you would not even let your BFF borrow) were really created as a necessity for gold miners during the California Gold Rush! Who knew?! (Jeans #42 in “The One Hundred”)
Number 52, Mad Money, is a great accessory that you cannot find in a store but can find in Garcia’s book. And every businesswoman knows that having some mad money stashed away for a rainy day is a worthwhile business decision.
Among the 100 pieces, there are a few key items that the Jet-setting bizMe reader should commit to memory: #9 BlackBerry, #11 Blazer, #23 Cosmetic Bag, #40 Investment Bag, #41 iPod, #48 Little Black Dress, #51 Luggage, #84 Suit, #90 Underwear, #91 Valid Passport and #99 Yoga Gear. These items will get you more than a foot in the door and take you from day to night at that upcoming international business conference.
The only criticism that can be offered about “The One Hundred” is that Garcia left off an important fashion piece: this book!
Read more about why you should steal your boyfriends cardigan, have your own monogrammed stationery and how to choose real or fake furs in this 284-page fashion bible.
