What do you think?
Rate this book
A Guide to Elegance: For Every Woman Who Wants to Be Well and Properly Dressed on All Occasions
The original
What Not to Wear
from one of fashion's
most enduringly
stylish women ... Written by French style guru Madame Genevieve Antoine Dariaux, Elegance is a classic style bible for timeless chic, grace, and poise -- every tidbit of advice today's woman could possibly need, all at the tips of her (perfectly manicured) fingers.From Accessories to Zippers, Madame Dariaux imparts her pearls of wisdom on all things fashion-related -- and also offers advice on other crucial areas in life from shopping with girlfriends (don't) to marriage and sex.
What Not to Wear
from one of fashion's
most enduringly
stylish women ... Written by French style guru Madame Genevieve Antoine Dariaux, Elegance is a classic style bible for timeless chic, grace, and poise -- every tidbit of advice today's woman could possibly need, all at the tips of her (perfectly manicured) fingers.From Accessories to Zippers, Madame Dariaux imparts her pearls of wisdom on all things fashion-related -- and also offers advice on other crucial areas in life from shopping with girlfriends (don't) to marriage and sex.
240 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 1964
46 people are currently reading
2717 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 127 reviews
September 7, 2011
I'll admit, I am not a candidate for elegance most days. I came across this book just as I was eyeing up my closet and realizing that I am going to have to do one hell of a clearout because it it bursting at the seams with completely interchangeable crap. I'm the type who buys a serviceable work sweater from Banana Republic in three different shades, or goes to an outlet mall and picks up a black skirt if it fits. I look fine, but that's just it -- I look FINE. Acceptable, standard, blah. And the good stuff gets mixed in with the bad stuff, and I never go to the dry cleaner's often enough, and I sometimes have snowdrifts of clothing piled up in a corner. I have too much stuff, basically, and none of it is real quality or perfect for me.
Hard to say why I love this book quite so much, but I do. I loooove it. The writer's tone is fabulous, a sort of kindly advisor who actually sounds like an old-fashioned shop assistant -- you know, the one who acted a bit more like a personal shopper and was a wealth of information, rather than today's salesgirls who are more like dressing-room runners.
There's an interesting split on how people interpret the advice, too. Some people appear to read the book and hear a snotty Frenchwoman laying down the law and dismissing nonconformists as sartorial wrecks. But the the thing is, this is not a book about fashion, it's a book about elegance, which is related to being fashionable but not as closely as some seem to think. Elegance appears to have a lot more to do with manner, behaviour, classic dress, and a certain hyperfocus/care regarding how you present yourself to the world.
Do I WANT to be elegant? Yes. I've got a bit of a fixation on being graceful and classic, and have very little interest in trends, so I'm already well-positioned to like the advice coming my way. So that's why it's easy to skip over the 1963 bit about veils and stoles and instead focus on the advice about investment pieces, or the comments on gloves and makeup. And honestly, just in reading the advice, I found myself nodding a lot. It makes sense. I don't often find myself looking at an article of clothing a woman wears and thinking how it makes her look elegant; the woman herself is elegant, and the clothes/makeup/jewels/accessories are all the results of behind-the-scenes stagecraft. And that's how D'ariaux is instructing readers: surefire ways to increase your elegance quotient via management and coordination. If you don't follow the rules, you're probably still perfectly acceptable, so don't worry -- but if you want to be standout, then it can't hurt to take the tips, can it?
Anyhow, this might be hit-or-miss for some people, but for me it was a hit all the way. I'm taking D'ariaux's advice and scouring my closet straight down to the ground, and then I'm going to start looking for the perfect gored tweed skirt. And maybe a pair of gloves. And, obviously, a bright winter coat.
Hard to say why I love this book quite so much, but I do. I loooove it. The writer's tone is fabulous, a sort of kindly advisor who actually sounds like an old-fashioned shop assistant -- you know, the one who acted a bit more like a personal shopper and was a wealth of information, rather than today's salesgirls who are more like dressing-room runners.
There's an interesting split on how people interpret the advice, too. Some people appear to read the book and hear a snotty Frenchwoman laying down the law and dismissing nonconformists as sartorial wrecks. But the the thing is, this is not a book about fashion, it's a book about elegance, which is related to being fashionable but not as closely as some seem to think. Elegance appears to have a lot more to do with manner, behaviour, classic dress, and a certain hyperfocus/care regarding how you present yourself to the world.
Do I WANT to be elegant? Yes. I've got a bit of a fixation on being graceful and classic, and have very little interest in trends, so I'm already well-positioned to like the advice coming my way. So that's why it's easy to skip over the 1963 bit about veils and stoles and instead focus on the advice about investment pieces, or the comments on gloves and makeup. And honestly, just in reading the advice, I found myself nodding a lot. It makes sense. I don't often find myself looking at an article of clothing a woman wears and thinking how it makes her look elegant; the woman herself is elegant, and the clothes/makeup/jewels/accessories are all the results of behind-the-scenes stagecraft. And that's how D'ariaux is instructing readers: surefire ways to increase your elegance quotient via management and coordination. If you don't follow the rules, you're probably still perfectly acceptable, so don't worry -- but if you want to be standout, then it can't hurt to take the tips, can it?
Anyhow, this might be hit-or-miss for some people, but for me it was a hit all the way. I'm taking D'ariaux's advice and scouring my closet straight down to the ground, and then I'm going to start looking for the perfect gored tweed skirt. And maybe a pair of gloves. And, obviously, a bright winter coat.
October 18, 2007
1964 edition is by far the superior. Also, you have to keep in mind that the author is kind of a bitch.
December 19, 2017
Fabulous, very detailed book I will perhaps return to write a proper review one day. But until this happens, please note this book is:
- packed with useful information on vitage style (50s/ 60s); written unlike the now-fashionable books of the "French chic" books, it is very informative, filled with tips, outfit formulas, lists and addresses - to the point where it would make a fascinating source material for anyone wishing to write a novel set in this period.
- a fascinating document of the crushingly materialistic and politically incorrect mindset of the period, where evening handbags made of antelope skin, with a clasp from Cartier, place mats made of saris, and men making huge, impractical purchases for their lovers were the norm.
- written in a wonderfully caustic style, and evidently by a very intelligent person who has seen it all.
Strongly recommended if you are interested in vintage fashion of fashion industry in general.
- packed with useful information on vitage style (50s/ 60s); written unlike the now-fashionable books of the "French chic" books, it is very informative, filled with tips, outfit formulas, lists and addresses - to the point where it would make a fascinating source material for anyone wishing to write a novel set in this period.
- a fascinating document of the crushingly materialistic and politically incorrect mindset of the period, where evening handbags made of antelope skin, with a clasp from Cartier, place mats made of saris, and men making huge, impractical purchases for their lovers were the norm.
- written in a wonderfully caustic style, and evidently by a very intelligent person who has seen it all.
Strongly recommended if you are interested in vintage fashion of fashion industry in general.
July 11, 2012
I normally enjoy these types of books... I mean what woman wouldn't want to be more elegant and charming.
What really bothered me in this book was the chapter about dressing with handicaps. According to the author, I have three of the four womanly handicaps: I'm short, I'm busty, and I have red hair and freckles.
I also did t like the fact that she considered a woman who is 5'3" weighing 125lbs to be "plump."
So at 5"1', 130lbs, with an E cup and red hair, I am fashionably handicapped. And to think, I always thought I was beautiful... Oh wait, I am.
What really bothered me in this book was the chapter about dressing with handicaps. According to the author, I have three of the four womanly handicaps: I'm short, I'm busty, and I have red hair and freckles.
I also did t like the fact that she considered a woman who is 5'3" weighing 125lbs to be "plump."
So at 5"1', 130lbs, with an E cup and red hair, I am fashionably handicapped. And to think, I always thought I was beautiful... Oh wait, I am.
December 4, 2013
I have long been interested in the female equivalent of the "Art of Manliness" blog which my boyfriend reads quasi-religiously, and this provided some solid answers in that direction. Something about the way Mme. Dariaux writes made me unable to put the book down for the first read-through; it feels like a long conversation over tea, or perhaps several glasses of wine. Many reviews I've seen complain about her advice being obscure or old-fashioned, but I found it charming. As with anything, this book shouldn't be taken as a rote set of commands, but understood as insights into a particular frame of mind about the role of fashion and clothing (sadly lacking in America today): quality over quantity, simple and conservative, classic over trendy.
May 5, 2016
I just could not take this little book of fashion tips seriously not matter how hard I tried. I don't even know where to begin to quote funny sections because there are just too many. I will try and choose just three for a little tease.
1) The Kennedy family had chic; but the Truman family didn't.
2) When you are very suntanned, it is better to avoid wearing black or navy.
3) It is a good rule never to go shopping for clothes with a girlfriend since she is an unwitting rival.
1) The Kennedy family had chic; but the Truman family didn't.
2) When you are very suntanned, it is better to avoid wearing black or navy.
3) It is a good rule never to go shopping for clothes with a girlfriend since she is an unwitting rival.
July 12, 2021
I love reading these old timey advice books.
September 13, 2022
I love the author's use of words however, it seems outdated. They did a reprint of the book in 2004 but it reads like it is from the 1960s when it was first copyrighted. However, some things are still relevant.
February 4, 2015
Sumptuous. Though much of the actual clothes advice is very much of its period (1964) and for a decidely affluent class; there are many absolute gems of timeless advice; such as "Even if you look like a goddess in a bathing suit, it is absolutely incorrect to wear it any place but on the beach" (p.14).
This book acts as a stark reminder that so called 'fashion' today (in 2011) exists primarily to increase the wealth of the designer, fashion journalist, and retailer; and does very little (if anything) to enhance the beauty (elegance) of the wearer.
It IS very useful to be shown/reminded how to create a 'capsule' wardrobe; detached from the whims of current 'fashion', from which any number of distinct variations can be achieved by the addition of well chosen accessories.
Most of us do not change outfits seven(!) times a day. But what a pleasure it is to develop the habit of at least changing for dinner in the evening.
I actually enjoyed this book far more that I initially thought I would. Liberation from 'fashion' tyranny is not easy to achieve; but for the sake of serenity of mind, and saving hours of time and vast sums of money, it's more than well worth it.
Thank you HarperCollins for republishing this title. Every girl should be given a copy of this book on her thirteenth birthday.
This book acts as a stark reminder that so called 'fashion' today (in 2011) exists primarily to increase the wealth of the designer, fashion journalist, and retailer; and does very little (if anything) to enhance the beauty (elegance) of the wearer.
It IS very useful to be shown/reminded how to create a 'capsule' wardrobe; detached from the whims of current 'fashion', from which any number of distinct variations can be achieved by the addition of well chosen accessories.
Most of us do not change outfits seven(!) times a day. But what a pleasure it is to develop the habit of at least changing for dinner in the evening.
I actually enjoyed this book far more that I initially thought I would. Liberation from 'fashion' tyranny is not easy to achieve; but for the sake of serenity of mind, and saving hours of time and vast sums of money, it's more than well worth it.
Thank you HarperCollins for republishing this title. Every girl should be given a copy of this book on her thirteenth birthday.
September 28, 2011
"To be elegant is first of all to know oneself, and to know oneself well requires a certain amount of reflection and intelligence. Consequently, a woman who is utterly stupid will always find it extremely difficult to become truly elegant."
- Dariaux, p. 129, in the section "Personality"
This 60s gem was recently reprinted (and slightly revised by the author) to cash in on the craze for ladymag fashion how-to guides crowding the displays at Barnes & Noble. Yet it's far less frivolous than such company implies. Dariaux, whose ideas about propriety were quite old-guard in the 60s, now seems nearly radical in her insistence on a pared-down wardrobe of only a few items, none of them spendy. She writes from a time when occasions -- a job interview, or a road trip in the country -- brought certain expectations for dress and grooming. These expectations are extinct, but Dariaux is prescient in her interest in selfhood and her interpretation on elegance as the effect of intelligence and sensitivity. With such a message, this book is therapeutic. Know thyself and soyez élégant.
- Dariaux, p. 129, in the section "Personality"
This 60s gem was recently reprinted (and slightly revised by the author) to cash in on the craze for ladymag fashion how-to guides crowding the displays at Barnes & Noble. Yet it's far less frivolous than such company implies. Dariaux, whose ideas about propriety were quite old-guard in the 60s, now seems nearly radical in her insistence on a pared-down wardrobe of only a few items, none of them spendy. She writes from a time when occasions -- a job interview, or a road trip in the country -- brought certain expectations for dress and grooming. These expectations are extinct, but Dariaux is prescient in her interest in selfhood and her interpretation on elegance as the effect of intelligence and sensitivity. With such a message, this book is therapeutic. Know thyself and soyez élégant.
July 29, 2007
A lady who follows her advice, I imagine, has perhaps only 10 items in her wardrobes and everything is perfectly coordinated. She is also perhaps similar to Bree Van De Kamp (Marcia Cross' character in "Desperate Housewives"): dressed to the nines, impeccably mannered, yet a little psychotic.
I find myself consulting this book from time to time ahead of my shopping trip, not to follow the advice (I mean who can afford Chanel tweed spring Suit in this time and age? Definitely not me) but to restrain myself from buying rubbish.
Some advices, like the colour coordination, are quite useful if you have no clue on how to coordinate your office wardrobe.
The book doesn't talk only about fashion but also etiquette and manners.
Again, fun book. Not much of a use but gives a little peak of what's considered a timeless elegance, esp. for a hopeless tomboy like me. But only when I can be bothered to.
I find myself consulting this book from time to time ahead of my shopping trip, not to follow the advice (I mean who can afford Chanel tweed spring Suit in this time and age? Definitely not me) but to restrain myself from buying rubbish.
Some advices, like the colour coordination, are quite useful if you have no clue on how to coordinate your office wardrobe.
The book doesn't talk only about fashion but also etiquette and manners.
Again, fun book. Not much of a use but gives a little peak of what's considered a timeless elegance, esp. for a hopeless tomboy like me. But only when I can be bothered to.
June 6, 2016
I love this vintage gem!
This fashion guide is full of (still) good advice, and is a nice contrast to show what 'modern' aka mismatched dress-up box fashion is reacting to. Think Oscar de la Renta... Do you like/appreciate his work? Then you should enjoy this book. If not, move on.
I also really enjoy her witty sense of humor. It is stiletto sharp, yet not too mean-spirited. She definitely didn't sugar coat her words. She is someone I'd liked to have met. (And, she would have found me to be completely unimpressive.)
On a personal note, I found out about this book in a very unusual way (for me). The chapter quotes in Kathleen Tessaro's Elegance were taken from this book. I loved them so much, I sought out this book and found it well-worth the wait.
Btw, "Elegance" is also a recommended read. It's chick lit with substance, imo.
This fashion guide is full of (still) good advice, and is a nice contrast to show what 'modern' aka mismatched dress-up box fashion is reacting to. Think Oscar de la Renta... Do you like/appreciate his work? Then you should enjoy this book. If not, move on.
I also really enjoy her witty sense of humor. It is stiletto sharp, yet not too mean-spirited. She definitely didn't sugar coat her words. She is someone I'd liked to have met. (And, she would have found me to be completely unimpressive.)
On a personal note, I found out about this book in a very unusual way (for me). The chapter quotes in Kathleen Tessaro's Elegance were taken from this book. I loved them so much, I sought out this book and found it well-worth the wait.
Btw, "Elegance" is also a recommended read. It's chick lit with substance, imo.
March 29, 2008
How I love these Cold War-era guides to femininity. This one, penned in 1964 by an intensely uptight French Couturier, is full of important advice. Words of wisdom include which kinds of white gloves to wear to a daytime embassy reception and the different attire one wears to horse shows depending on what kinds of horses are being shown at what kind of show, along with "drop earrings are very dressy and should never be worn before 5 p.m. and never with a tailored hat" and "your various pieces of luggage are useful servants but they are very indiscreet ones, for they reveal your social situation even more then doesa your attire."
May 21, 2016
What began as slightly insightful quickly turned into repetitively boring! If one has no guidepost nor individual sense of elegance, maybe this work could be helpful. However, the air of the text feels deliberately pretentious, snobby, and overworked in a look-down-one's-nose-at-the-vast-majority-of-society kind of way. I won't give lower than "2" because the editing is impeccable & the Tiffany blue cover with delicate black script is beautiful. Sincerely though, just "okay" is what this is.
January 24, 2021
Oh if only all women would read this book. Perhaps we would then have fewer gals blowing money on fast fashion and more investing in a small wardrobe that make them feel as good as they look. Some advice is outdated, but the vast majority should be taken to heart.
November 14, 2009
Don't mind that her fashion suggestions are dated. She demonstrates timeless style and encourages, as well as points, you in the direction of finding your own. After all, elegance is a state of mind.
November 23, 2009
What hat to wear, when to wear gloves, dresses, shoes, pocketbooks that made sense. This book was written when fashion meant something about the person wearing the clothing and accessories and not about the foolish designer who makes us all look like utter buffoons.
February 10, 2018
I just love books like this. Written originally in 1964 she talks of all things that are a guide toward elegance. Almost everything with a touch of today's world still rings true. I love all things to do with elegance and grace.
June 28, 2014
Living and fashion advice from 1964. What's not to like?
March 13, 2018
When I first picked up this book I had no idea it was first published in 1964, so it was really outdated and super sexist. A no from me.
June 15, 2020
It is clear that it is the edited version and what makes one really curious is how edited it actually is. You don’t think about it until there is a comment about Princess Diana and then you start questioning everything - is this the bit from the 60s or is it modern. i would have preferred to see the original with an introduction and conclusion reflecting the history of elegance.
September 7, 2023
I mean, I read it.
This book was pretty interesting, though definitely outdated. Kept me out of a slump tho
This book was pretty interesting, though definitely outdated. Kept me out of a slump tho
October 9, 2016
I absolutely hated this book. It was a total waste of energy and money and quite offensive from time to time. This is not a manual about how to well dress and well behave, but a slap in the face. I font that this book was mostly teaching you how to be obnoxious and arrogant.
To it's defense, it did contain a few good tips , but they ware rather the common good sense type.
Over all, I don't feel more stylish and I don't consider that I know more about being well dressed.
I wouldn't recommend it.
To it's defense, it did contain a few good tips , but they ware rather the common good sense type.
Over all, I don't feel more stylish and I don't consider that I know more about being well dressed.
I wouldn't recommend it.
August 19, 2016
I love this little book. At it's best (for me, at least) when you dip in and out of the book and pick out a random piece of advice on how to dress and present yourself coupled wth advice on the essentials of elegance. Clearly, a self-help guide, if that is not too inelegant a genre, from a gentler, kinder and somewhat more considerate era .
April 30, 2016
Loved this timeless handbook on elegance. My takeaways: less is better, authentic is better than fake, a few costly possessions is better than a lot of cheap stuff, and try to find a very nice hairstyle and keep it 'till the very last day you can possibly keep it.
October 19, 2017
I really liked this book. I'm so tired of looking at women looking like crap, when just a few decades ago we took pride in how we looked. People seem to behave better when their not shlopping around in yoga pants.
February 15, 2009
Just like a well-cut and flattering LBD, this book is timeless.
August 2, 2011
Every woman should read this just to understand how elegance was thought of then and how it's ideals still live with us today.
Read
March 25, 2012Old school and (other than the few dated sections) fabulous!
June 8, 2014
tl;dr: 1. wear clothes that suit you, 2. buy quality
Displaying 1 - 30 of 127 reviews