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The Truth About Style
The hilarious, beloved cohost of TLC’s What Not to Wear examines the universal obstacles all women—including herself—put in their way
With her unique talent for seeing past disastrous wardrobes to the core emotional issues that caused these sartorial crises, style savant Stacy London has transformed not only the looks but also the lives of hundreds of guests who have appeared on What Not to Wear. Now for the first time in print, London turns that expert X-ray insight on herself.
Like the women she’s transformed, London has plenty of emotional baggage. At eleven, she suffered from severe psoriasis that left her with permanent physical and mental scars. During college, she became anorexic on a misguided quest for perfection. By the time she joined the staff at Vogue, London’s weight had doubled from binge eating. Although self-esteem and self-consciousness nearly sabotaged a promising career, London learned the hard way that we wear our insecurities every day. It wasn’t until she found the self-confidence to develop a strong personal style that she finally became comfortable in her skin.
In The Truth About Style, London shares her own often painful history and her philosophy of the healing power of personal style—illustrating it with a series of detailed “start-overs” with eight real women, demonstrating how personal style helps them overcome the emotional obstacles we all face. For anyone who has ever despaired of finding the right clothes, or even taking an objective assessment in a full-length mirror, The Truth About Style will be an inspiring, liberating, and often very funny guide to finding the expression of your truest self.
With her unique talent for seeing past disastrous wardrobes to the core emotional issues that caused these sartorial crises, style savant Stacy London has transformed not only the looks but also the lives of hundreds of guests who have appeared on What Not to Wear. Now for the first time in print, London turns that expert X-ray insight on herself.
Like the women she’s transformed, London has plenty of emotional baggage. At eleven, she suffered from severe psoriasis that left her with permanent physical and mental scars. During college, she became anorexic on a misguided quest for perfection. By the time she joined the staff at Vogue, London’s weight had doubled from binge eating. Although self-esteem and self-consciousness nearly sabotaged a promising career, London learned the hard way that we wear our insecurities every day. It wasn’t until she found the self-confidence to develop a strong personal style that she finally became comfortable in her skin.
In The Truth About Style, London shares her own often painful history and her philosophy of the healing power of personal style—illustrating it with a series of detailed “start-overs” with eight real women, demonstrating how personal style helps them overcome the emotional obstacles we all face. For anyone who has ever despaired of finding the right clothes, or even taking an objective assessment in a full-length mirror, The Truth About Style will be an inspiring, liberating, and often very funny guide to finding the expression of your truest self.
215 pages, Hardcover
First published October 2, 2012
30 people are currently reading
2058 people want to read
About the author
Stacy London
6 books48 followersStacy London is a fashion consultant and media personality known primarily for her role as co-host on What Not to Wear, a reality program that features makeovers. She shares on-air duties with Clinton Kelly. London started out as a fashion editor and stylist for several celebrities and designers. She has since moved into business consulting and fashion reporting.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 293 reviews
December 4, 2013
I have a girl crush on Stacy London. Back when I had cable, I watched her on "What Not to Wear" every week and wished I could go shopping with her. She is so funny and lively and chic! She seems like a woman who has it all.
Her book, "The Truth About Style" was surprisingly personal. It was a relief to find out that the fabulous Stacy London also struggles with body image and confidence issues. As a child, Stacy suffered from a severe outbreak of psoriasis, an autoimmune disorder that left red welts and crusty skin all over her body. She said she spent years wearing only turtlenecks and long pants, even on the hottest days. She felt like a freak, and the kids in her school made fun of her. She eventually recovered from psoriasis, but in college she became anorexic, her weight dropping down to 90 pounds. Later, she couldn't stop binge eating and her weight climbed to 180. Stacy, now in her 40s, said her weight still fluctuates a bit, but she's smarter about knowing how to dress her body.
"Style, unlike fashion, is personal. It's about the individual. You have to know yourself in order to utilize style. Style isn't selling you a false promise. It's reality based, and operates on the knowledge of what is right for you. ... Style is about enhancing who you are, and not attempting to look like someone you'll never be. With style, there are as many ways a woman can look beautiful as there are women."
After sharing her story, Stacy introduces nine different women, each one who needs help with their style. Some women don't know how to dress for their age or a change in weight, others have trouble finding clothes because they're curvy or plus-sized or tall or petite; one is a breast cancer survivor who wants to feel feminine again, another is a perfectionist and is scared to buy anything in case it's the wrong choice, and one is a busy mom who hasn't bought anything for herself in years because she gives it all for her kids. Stacy said she solicited appeals from hundreds of women who wanted a style makeover, which she calls "start-overs," and she picked nine women who represent problems lots of us face.
"Making excuses and letting fear rule our style stop us from expressing our true selves and what we could look like at our best. We get in the way of our own potential instead of reveling in it. Negative thought-loops are self-perpetuating. If we don't like what we see in the mirror, we either ignore it or we overcompensate for it ... By changing your style, you're forced to change the way you perceive yourself. And if you can see yourself differently, you can start to feel differently. If you put on clothes that actually flatter your figure, you suddenly may not feel as badly about your body anymore. When you think positively about one aspect of yourself, it becomes easier to believe in yourself in lots of different contexts."
I related to several of the women's stories and appreciated the style advice Stacy gives to each. The book has lots of photographs, including before and after photos, and descriptions for the clothes and accessories. Stacy always advises people to dress the body they have now, not the one they wish they had:
"Nobody is perfect. Don't approach the mirror and hope, each time, that you'll look like someone else. You're going to be disappointed if you do ... No matter how much you subjectively love or hate your shape, it's still the same body you're going to wake up with each morning. Stop exhausting yourself hoping, wishing, praying to be someone different, and take pleasure in knowing that you are who you are, in all your fabulous uniqueness. Go about the business of working with that real body to create a style you love and can love your shape in."
At the back of the book, Stacy includes a shopping guide of stores and designers for different women's needs, such as plus sizes, petites, glamazons, shoes, denim, etc. I would recommend this book to any woman who feels like they are stuck in a style rut and needs a boost to get out. It's like getting a hug and helpful nudge from a fabulous friend.
Her book, "The Truth About Style" was surprisingly personal. It was a relief to find out that the fabulous Stacy London also struggles with body image and confidence issues. As a child, Stacy suffered from a severe outbreak of psoriasis, an autoimmune disorder that left red welts and crusty skin all over her body. She said she spent years wearing only turtlenecks and long pants, even on the hottest days. She felt like a freak, and the kids in her school made fun of her. She eventually recovered from psoriasis, but in college she became anorexic, her weight dropping down to 90 pounds. Later, she couldn't stop binge eating and her weight climbed to 180. Stacy, now in her 40s, said her weight still fluctuates a bit, but she's smarter about knowing how to dress her body.
"Style, unlike fashion, is personal. It's about the individual. You have to know yourself in order to utilize style. Style isn't selling you a false promise. It's reality based, and operates on the knowledge of what is right for you. ... Style is about enhancing who you are, and not attempting to look like someone you'll never be. With style, there are as many ways a woman can look beautiful as there are women."
After sharing her story, Stacy introduces nine different women, each one who needs help with their style. Some women don't know how to dress for their age or a change in weight, others have trouble finding clothes because they're curvy or plus-sized or tall or petite; one is a breast cancer survivor who wants to feel feminine again, another is a perfectionist and is scared to buy anything in case it's the wrong choice, and one is a busy mom who hasn't bought anything for herself in years because she gives it all for her kids. Stacy said she solicited appeals from hundreds of women who wanted a style makeover, which she calls "start-overs," and she picked nine women who represent problems lots of us face.
"Making excuses and letting fear rule our style stop us from expressing our true selves and what we could look like at our best. We get in the way of our own potential instead of reveling in it. Negative thought-loops are self-perpetuating. If we don't like what we see in the mirror, we either ignore it or we overcompensate for it ... By changing your style, you're forced to change the way you perceive yourself. And if you can see yourself differently, you can start to feel differently. If you put on clothes that actually flatter your figure, you suddenly may not feel as badly about your body anymore. When you think positively about one aspect of yourself, it becomes easier to believe in yourself in lots of different contexts."
I related to several of the women's stories and appreciated the style advice Stacy gives to each. The book has lots of photographs, including before and after photos, and descriptions for the clothes and accessories. Stacy always advises people to dress the body they have now, not the one they wish they had:
"Nobody is perfect. Don't approach the mirror and hope, each time, that you'll look like someone else. You're going to be disappointed if you do ... No matter how much you subjectively love or hate your shape, it's still the same body you're going to wake up with each morning. Stop exhausting yourself hoping, wishing, praying to be someone different, and take pleasure in knowing that you are who you are, in all your fabulous uniqueness. Go about the business of working with that real body to create a style you love and can love your shape in."
At the back of the book, Stacy includes a shopping guide of stores and designers for different women's needs, such as plus sizes, petites, glamazons, shoes, denim, etc. I would recommend this book to any woman who feels like they are stuck in a style rut and needs a boost to get out. It's like getting a hug and helpful nudge from a fabulous friend.
March 24, 2013
I never used to like the show "What Not to Wear" - First they (Clinton & Stacy) always seemed so mean to these women. And then they always put them in wrap dresses! Of course, I've now lost 48 pounds, and am nursing so I wear wrap dresses every other day. So maybe my perspective has changed.
And this book deals with Stacy London's serious health/medical issues, as well as being a primer for female self-esteem and style. I learned about Stacy's troubles, and struggles, and how she got that white streak in her hair. (I also love Bonnie Raitt's streak.) But I also learn about Stacy's childlessness and her singledom, and her good-hearted humor, a trait that TLC must aggressively edit from the show. She's quite funny and kind, instead of a bossy b*tch who wears black and spike heels. Just listen to this:
Not having kids was a choice I made. There was only one time in my life I was so in love that I wanted to make a person with that person. It's a huge feeling to love so deeply that you want to fuse a part of yourself with someone else. That's not the co-ownership of a mortgage or writing a screenplay together. That's an altogether different proposition. And unless I feel that way again, I probably won't have children.
Writing that makes me a little sad.
Then again, the idea of coming home to a screaming baby makes me want to shoot myself in the face.
See, poignant, truthful, funny, extreme.
But most importantly, this book focuses on women and how wearing clothes that fit and flatter shows you that you are worthy of respect and dignity.
Logically, though, guilt has to be the most useless emotion know to womankind. Taking time for yourself is essential for a mother, wife, woman, and human. Word, Stacy London, word.
And then this next quote goes to all my mommy friends out there... How we dress transmits messages, whether we like it or not. What message does "Mommy doesn't deserve new things"send? Would a good mom sit her daughter down and say, "When you grow up, you should ignore yourself and proudly cast aside your needs for everyone else's?" Moms can teach their children self-respect by looking the part.
But the best lesson from this book is more of a life lesson than a fashion lesson:
Yes! ..... And?
You have 4 kids. Yes! And? (what are ya gonna do about it?)
You have wide hips. Yes! And? (what are ya gonna do about it?)
You haven't had a full night's sleep in 2 years. Yes! And? (what are ya gonna do about it?)
My new motto will be Yes! And?
And this book deals with Stacy London's serious health/medical issues, as well as being a primer for female self-esteem and style. I learned about Stacy's troubles, and struggles, and how she got that white streak in her hair. (I also love Bonnie Raitt's streak.) But I also learn about Stacy's childlessness and her singledom, and her good-hearted humor, a trait that TLC must aggressively edit from the show. She's quite funny and kind, instead of a bossy b*tch who wears black and spike heels. Just listen to this:
Not having kids was a choice I made. There was only one time in my life I was so in love that I wanted to make a person with that person. It's a huge feeling to love so deeply that you want to fuse a part of yourself with someone else. That's not the co-ownership of a mortgage or writing a screenplay together. That's an altogether different proposition. And unless I feel that way again, I probably won't have children.
Writing that makes me a little sad.
Then again, the idea of coming home to a screaming baby makes me want to shoot myself in the face.
See, poignant, truthful, funny, extreme.
But most importantly, this book focuses on women and how wearing clothes that fit and flatter shows you that you are worthy of respect and dignity.
Logically, though, guilt has to be the most useless emotion know to womankind. Taking time for yourself is essential for a mother, wife, woman, and human. Word, Stacy London, word.
And then this next quote goes to all my mommy friends out there... How we dress transmits messages, whether we like it or not. What message does "Mommy doesn't deserve new things"send? Would a good mom sit her daughter down and say, "When you grow up, you should ignore yourself and proudly cast aside your needs for everyone else's?" Moms can teach their children self-respect by looking the part.
But the best lesson from this book is more of a life lesson than a fashion lesson:
Yes! ..... And?
You have 4 kids. Yes! And? (what are ya gonna do about it?)
You have wide hips. Yes! And? (what are ya gonna do about it?)
You haven't had a full night's sleep in 2 years. Yes! And? (what are ya gonna do about it?)
My new motto will be Yes! And?
March 10, 2019
I feel bad for rating this one star. I like Stacy London and used to love watching her show, “What Not to Wear”. This book didn’t teach me anything useful. I was hoping for more.
I did like one quote:
“A whole life can go by being too busy and waiting for ‘when.’ Living in the future means barely existing in the present. If you can’t enjoy things now, when will you magically develop the tools to enjoy things in the future?”
I did like one quote:
“A whole life can go by being too busy and waiting for ‘when.’ Living in the future means barely existing in the present. If you can’t enjoy things now, when will you magically develop the tools to enjoy things in the future?”
October 17, 2012
Stacy is about 95% life coach and five percent stylist. It's easy to identify with each of the women in the book, maybe Stacy herself most of all. She's so beautiful and self-confident, it's hard to believe that it was ever any other way. She is transparent with her own painful experiences with psoriasis and weight fluctuation, but instead of wallowing or hiding, her response is "Yes...and?"
It was a special treat to see her at a book signing at Changing Hands Bookstore in Tempe. She is an incredible ball of energy and enthusiasm! I am so glad we went.
It was a special treat to see her at a book signing at Changing Hands Bookstore in Tempe. She is an incredible ball of energy and enthusiasm! I am so glad we went.
May 1, 2013
This book is easy to skim through and read and re-read favorite parts such as Stacy's own story of dealing with psoriasis as a child. The case studies of the nine women in the book are fun and interesting too. In this book, her second, Stacy uses a philosophy she describes as "Yes,....and?
November 11, 2020
I read this through in one sitting last night after a friend gave me a copy for my birthday. I skimmed the style parts (because I'm a devoted watcher of her TV show already) but found her autobiographical tie-ins fascinating. A smart, humane book.
October 29, 2012
Another day, another style manifesto. Did I learn anything? Maybe not. Well, maybe. I learned more about Stacy London as it includes quite a bit of biographical information, none of which was boring. If you were new to style manifestos I bet you would have come away from this one better informed but I'd still steer you toward Tim Gunn's first book on style for some real basics.
This book philosophizes a bit more. It's chattier. Its "gals"-ier. It discusses the challenges of aging. Like the uncomfortable parts of it. Not the varicose veins (though that's pretty uncomfortable). But the parts like admitting that you miss being the cute girl in the room. Like the fact that your outsides don't match your insides because on the inside you're still waiting for the chance to roll your eyes at the guys who are so obviously checking you out. But, your eyes stay where they are because on the outside you're not that girl anymore. Stacy wants to help you through this difficult time by telling you to shut up and deal. Thanks, Stacy. I needed that.
She says a bunch of other stuff too. A lot of it has to do with accepting the way things are because, well, that's how they are. Some of it you can change and some you can't. But right now, it is what it is. So suck it up, Buttercup.
The pictures are unremarkable. The makeovers or "start overs" are just okay. The text is really the thing here.
Again, I've read too many style guides to get anything new out of yet another one but I liked this. It was not a waste of time. But, if you only read one read Tim's. If you read two read Tim's and Ines de la Fressange's. If you read three add this to the pile.
This book philosophizes a bit more. It's chattier. Its "gals"-ier. It discusses the challenges of aging. Like the uncomfortable parts of it. Not the varicose veins (though that's pretty uncomfortable). But the parts like admitting that you miss being the cute girl in the room. Like the fact that your outsides don't match your insides because on the inside you're still waiting for the chance to roll your eyes at the guys who are so obviously checking you out. But, your eyes stay where they are because on the outside you're not that girl anymore. Stacy wants to help you through this difficult time by telling you to shut up and deal. Thanks, Stacy. I needed that.
She says a bunch of other stuff too. A lot of it has to do with accepting the way things are because, well, that's how they are. Some of it you can change and some you can't. But right now, it is what it is. So suck it up, Buttercup.
The pictures are unremarkable. The makeovers or "start overs" are just okay. The text is really the thing here.
Again, I've read too many style guides to get anything new out of yet another one but I liked this. It was not a waste of time. But, if you only read one read Tim's. If you read two read Tim's and Ines de la Fressange's. If you read three add this to the pile.
December 16, 2012
It goes into depth about some of the psychology of how we dress, indecisiveness, how the way we feel about ourselves and others' opinions and judgments of us influence how we dress, and why we choose (or refuse to choose) to give weight to those beliefs and opinions.
Stacy starts off spending time getting personal about her self-esteem issues and battles with weight and psoriasis as a girl, as well as her status as a never-married, childless woman in her 40s. I loved her candor and relatability.
As she takes 9 women through personal styling consultations, she reflects her commonality with many of their issues, and gives readers a cheat sheet for how to overcome such defeatist thoughts as, "I try on pants everywhere I go and nothing fits," or "I'm self-conscious about my __________ (fill in body part here)," or "No one looks like me." There are also resources at the end of the book that list Stacy's recommended list of stores and designers based on the issues described by the 9 women she styled in the book.
Stacy starts off spending time getting personal about her self-esteem issues and battles with weight and psoriasis as a girl, as well as her status as a never-married, childless woman in her 40s. I loved her candor and relatability.
As she takes 9 women through personal styling consultations, she reflects her commonality with many of their issues, and gives readers a cheat sheet for how to overcome such defeatist thoughts as, "I try on pants everywhere I go and nothing fits," or "I'm self-conscious about my __________ (fill in body part here)," or "No one looks like me." There are also resources at the end of the book that list Stacy's recommended list of stores and designers based on the issues described by the 9 women she styled in the book.
October 12, 2012
I am enjoying this book. I came of age in the late 60's with all that implies - no make up , long, straight hair, sandals, bell bottoms and odd hippy shirts. I never had instruction in how to dress so I've been playing catch up since my daughter came along and started teaching me. We have watched lots of WNTW and my attitude about getting dressed has changed dramatically. It is still not the end all and the be all, but I do understand how dressing in a thoughtful way can make me feel better about myself. I like Stacy's down to earth comments. She gets it!
October 4, 2012
Excellent insight into the personal life and struggles with image Stacy London has faced. This book touches many of the common struggles women face with image and life in general. Just about anyone can relate to one or several of the women featured in the book. It is not just about clothes and style but more importantly about the barriers we place on ourselves and how to allow ourselves to break those barriers, treat ourselves better in order to look and feel as wonderful as everyone of all shapes and sizes should feel.
October 26, 2021
So I recently subscribed to Discovery+, and since then, I've been re-watching episodes of What Not to Wear, a show I loved in high school and now I love again. Yeah, it's a little extreme, but the best part is seeing people figure out how clothes should actually fit and how you have control over what clothes you wear, and thus, what image you project to the world. When I was younger, I worked in restaurants that always required baggy polo shirts and khakis, which always made me feel frumpy and depressed. Now that I'm fortunate enough to wear the clothes I prefer, it makes me feel more in charge.
Anyway, I'm going through a fashion phase thanks to Stacy London, and I really enjoyed this book. It features ten women with different needs (divorced and needing to date, tall, plus size, needing to look grown up, etc) and shows their transformations. I liked learning about Stacy London's background, too. How such a gorgeous woman could have gone through that type of psoriasis and went on to become a style icon is really affirming. It's the world I want.
Anyway, I'm going through a fashion phase thanks to Stacy London, and I really enjoyed this book. It features ten women with different needs (divorced and needing to date, tall, plus size, needing to look grown up, etc) and shows their transformations. I liked learning about Stacy London's background, too. How such a gorgeous woman could have gone through that type of psoriasis and went on to become a style icon is really affirming. It's the world I want.
October 18, 2012
Not your normal style manual...
Stacy London introduces us to nine "normal" women who having clothing issues due to various life experiences. Stacy looks into the psychology of why we hide behind our clothes, why we let ourselves go, etc. Sassy, sarcastic and non-judgmental, Stacy looks back on her childhood and college years- years that were filled with painful psoriasis and eating disorders. Recommended for all women in various stages of style in their life who need to be reminded how special and unique they are.
*** Shameless plug- You can read more of my book reviews at www.thesouthernbookworm.blogspot.com***
Stacy London introduces us to nine "normal" women who having clothing issues due to various life experiences. Stacy looks into the psychology of why we hide behind our clothes, why we let ourselves go, etc. Sassy, sarcastic and non-judgmental, Stacy looks back on her childhood and college years- years that were filled with painful psoriasis and eating disorders. Recommended for all women in various stages of style in their life who need to be reminded how special and unique they are.
*** Shameless plug- You can read more of my book reviews at www.thesouthernbookworm.blogspot.com***
May 5, 2017
I was expecting a typical style/fashion advice type book, but this is so much more than that. A significant portion of the book is really Stacy's memoir. It's reassuring to discover that someone who looks as beautiful and put-together as Stacy London has the same struggles and issues as the rest of us. I enjoyed the stories about Stacy and the other women more than the style advice.
October 14, 2012
I've been a huge fan of this woman for years without knowing much behind her dynamic, funny and wonderful personality and fashion knowledge. It was great to learn more about her and see illustrations of her talents. The world needs more Stacy London!
August 29, 2021
This was such a great book - kind of like Stacy's (and Clinton's) show What Not to Wear but more personal and with much more detail. This is definitely a memoir, as Stacy begins with her own personal struggles - skin issues, self-esteem, eating disorders, and how she discovered the truth about style. She shares her observations with her "trademark" snarky humor and honesty, and that's what makes this book so engaging.
The foundation of the book revolves around Stacy's "start overs" of nine women who have various issues with self-esteem, health, lifestyle, and - of course - clothes. In a letter written to Stacy explaining why she should be selected for the book, each woman describes her problems with clothes, style, and fashion. Then Stacy meets with each one, has a heartfelt conversation and learns how they feel - often inadequate and judgmental about their bodies and themselves. Stacy's concept of style is that it's a form of self-expression and aspiration - a tool to see yourself differently and to feel differently. She explains how the women in the book (including her) are examples of what a shift in perspective can accomplish.
There are several photos of each woman: one "before" and several during fittings, and then the "after/reveal." Stacy's explanations throughout the process emphasize taking positive control of your image, to be honest with yourself, and to realize we can always improve. She explains why the final outfit works, how she can relate to each woman's issues - so personal and honest and thoughtful.
One thing she emphasized is how the world of style has transformative power. This was an encouraging and educational book - I didn't want to put it down.
The foundation of the book revolves around Stacy's "start overs" of nine women who have various issues with self-esteem, health, lifestyle, and - of course - clothes. In a letter written to Stacy explaining why she should be selected for the book, each woman describes her problems with clothes, style, and fashion. Then Stacy meets with each one, has a heartfelt conversation and learns how they feel - often inadequate and judgmental about their bodies and themselves. Stacy's concept of style is that it's a form of self-expression and aspiration - a tool to see yourself differently and to feel differently. She explains how the women in the book (including her) are examples of what a shift in perspective can accomplish.
There are several photos of each woman: one "before" and several during fittings, and then the "after/reveal." Stacy's explanations throughout the process emphasize taking positive control of your image, to be honest with yourself, and to realize we can always improve. She explains why the final outfit works, how she can relate to each woman's issues - so personal and honest and thoughtful.
One thing she emphasized is how the world of style has transformative power. This was an encouraging and educational book - I didn't want to put it down.
September 19, 2020
"Color, pattern, texture, shine" remain in my mind long after "What Not to Wear" went off the air. "The Truth about Style" revisits that concept in very personal ways, as Stacy London tells her own story along with other women. Stacy refers to these as start-overs.
For me, the most inspiring start-over is for Janis, a cancer survivor. Stacy writes:
"Style is often written off as superficial and not an essential part of life. The fact is, you *can* live without it. You don't need style to breathe. But, if you're up for it, style can have a greater purpose in your life than you might have ever imagined or intended. Style is about identity. ...Style is about possibility. ...Celebrate every day the person you are."
For me, the most inspiring start-over is for Janis, a cancer survivor. Stacy writes:
"Style is often written off as superficial and not an essential part of life. The fact is, you *can* live without it. You don't need style to breathe. But, if you're up for it, style can have a greater purpose in your life than you might have ever imagined or intended. Style is about identity. ...Style is about possibility. ...Celebrate every day the person you are."
January 31, 2025
Why does one read a 10 year old book about style? I heard Stacy on a podcast about an unrelated topic (ghosts! On Rachel Dratch’s Woo Woo, which is great fun), and she mentioned she had written a kind of memoir about style. I was able to pick up a used copy of the book, and dove in. The memoir portion was fascinating and I learned a lot about Stacy’s past and how she came to be a famous stylist. You do have to look past the dated slang (remember when people said “totes adorbs” and “awesomesauce”?!), but the stories are poignant and relatable.
December 31, 2020
Great as a skim read - I read the intros to each person London helped, the solutions, and the tips sections. I skipped the narrative chunks about these people and their appointments with London as well as London's autobiographical sections almost entirely. Got some nice fashion tips and ideas and learned some things about style I'd never thought about before. Was pleasantly surprised that London factored in time and cost with her widely-diverse list of designer/retail line suggestions at the end of the book.
Want to read
April 30, 2020Don't you just love Dollar Tree?! I love books about fashion and style which is for the most part sorely lacking these days. Do you want to see real glamour? Check out some of the movies from the 20s, 30s, and 40s to drool like a baby over timeless gowns that could still be worn today.
This book has pictures, so I'm looking forward to adding a little more style and glamour to my own life. Always, walk the runway!
This book has pictures, so I'm looking forward to adding a little more style and glamour to my own life. Always, walk the runway!
October 23, 2022
This was fun to read/skim, never saw the author on her show, but I bet it would be good, based on the way she writes about people and their clothes. Can’t say any of the styles spoke to me, but the end results certainly made those ladies look much better. Obviously, peop don’t have to look frumpish or uninteresting.
June 22, 2022
A great book that gives the back story about Stacy, and her traumatic childhood disease. The way she presents the information and format of the book was as interesting as the tips.
February 27, 2017
I've been trying to update my wardrobe and my whole approach to shopping and personal style lately. I bought this book because I used to love What Not to Wear and Stacy and Clinton. I still occasionally hear their voices in my head when I'm shopping.
What I got from this book, though, was so much more. There isn't nearly as much in the way of style tips or how to shop or whatever that you'd expect. Rather, this is a deeply psychological and inspirational book. Through personal stories of several women from all walks of life, Stacy takes on issues such as self-esteem, taking time for ourselves, recovering from cancer and other major health issues, being okay with who we are, and projecting our personal power with no shame...and so much more! She's vulnerable and transparent about her own history as well--she's lived through "some stuff" and it shaped her, and she shares that with the reader in the hope that the reader will be able to learn from the reader's own "stuff" in return.
This is a tremendously sweet book, a motivational book, and one that gives a whole lot to think about. Even if you're perfectly okay with what you have in your closet, you'll still find a lot of goodness between the covers of this book. Highly recommended.
What I got from this book, though, was so much more. There isn't nearly as much in the way of style tips or how to shop or whatever that you'd expect. Rather, this is a deeply psychological and inspirational book. Through personal stories of several women from all walks of life, Stacy takes on issues such as self-esteem, taking time for ourselves, recovering from cancer and other major health issues, being okay with who we are, and projecting our personal power with no shame...and so much more! She's vulnerable and transparent about her own history as well--she's lived through "some stuff" and it shaped her, and she shares that with the reader in the hope that the reader will be able to learn from the reader's own "stuff" in return.
This is a tremendously sweet book, a motivational book, and one that gives a whole lot to think about. Even if you're perfectly okay with what you have in your closet, you'll still find a lot of goodness between the covers of this book. Highly recommended.
November 4, 2012
I could definitely hear Stacy London’s voice in this book. It also follows the “What Not to Wear” format. Women come in, talk about themselves and their style, and Stacy give them a “start-over” (i.e. makeover). During the makeover, Stacy gives out healthy doses of advice for anyone with a similar figure/problem about how to best dress their body.
The first chapter was a bit hard to read. Apparently, Stacy was a philosophy major is college and she uses the first chapter to flex these muscles. None of it made sense to me, but then I never got philosophy in college. Unless you are a philosophy major yourself, I’d recommend skipping the first chapter.
From the second chapter onward, the text focuses on actual people and becomes imminently readable and relatable. Stacy actually uses the second chapter to share some backstory on herself. I was surprised to learn about her medical issues as a child and her continued struggles with image. It made her more vulnerable and endearing to me. She doesn’t write in the whoa-is-me style of people seeking sympathy, but gives an unemotional assessment of her history and emotional conflicts to illuminate her style tendencies. It provoked me to think about the phycological reasons I dress the way I do.
The following chapters each focused on one woman. There was a “before” picture of them in a typical outfit. Then a discussion of their background and why they dress that way. Then Stacy gives her two sense of how she understands the problem. (Stacy shares more about her personal life in these sections, which was interesting to read. But it felt weird a few times, like she was using these women as a platform or excuse to talk about herself more.) Then were was a discussion on how they should dress, followed by an “after” picture. And some closing tips from Stacy.
I did notice that were weren’t many pictures of the younger/prettier women. Part of me felt that this was Stacy protecting herself from being photographed with them, especially after reading about her self-professed image struggles. It did have the effect though of making this more of an every-women book showcasing “regular” women.
Downsides: While I found Stacy very relatable and comfortable to read overall, modern morals crept into the book a bit. (Though not as much as some fashion books!) Stacy references “leaving a bad marriage and creating better one” as a positive possible effect of fashion. Marriages aren’t disposable in my book. She also later praises birth control and references the “childless by choice” movement. I can’t think of anything more depressingly selfish. She also references having sex "on the 3rd or 5th dates based on your rules for that”. Umm, how about the wedding night?
I will give Stacy props for recognizing the failed promises of the feminist movement through. She notes (and I agree) that women use to be expected to be Supermothers. Now we are expected to be Supermothers AND Superpeople (excelling at careers & every other area of life). The feminist movement just placed more expectations on us. How many women do I know that would love to be home with their kids, but their husband expect them to work (and raise the kids) -- thanks feminists. I may be taking her argument a bit farther than she did, but I find it refreshing when a celebrity is grounded. She seems to have a conservative bend that is best expressed in what she doesn’t say or endorse. Stacy also has a hardness to her that I admire. She seems to be able to pick up on things and isn’t afraid to call a spade a spade. Would you want fashion advice from anyone else?
Overall, I’d like to have Stacy London as an ally in my style corner. She relatable and reliable. There were many tips from this book that I found useful.
The first chapter was a bit hard to read. Apparently, Stacy was a philosophy major is college and she uses the first chapter to flex these muscles. None of it made sense to me, but then I never got philosophy in college. Unless you are a philosophy major yourself, I’d recommend skipping the first chapter.
From the second chapter onward, the text focuses on actual people and becomes imminently readable and relatable. Stacy actually uses the second chapter to share some backstory on herself. I was surprised to learn about her medical issues as a child and her continued struggles with image. It made her more vulnerable and endearing to me. She doesn’t write in the whoa-is-me style of people seeking sympathy, but gives an unemotional assessment of her history and emotional conflicts to illuminate her style tendencies. It provoked me to think about the phycological reasons I dress the way I do.
The following chapters each focused on one woman. There was a “before” picture of them in a typical outfit. Then a discussion of their background and why they dress that way. Then Stacy gives her two sense of how she understands the problem. (Stacy shares more about her personal life in these sections, which was interesting to read. But it felt weird a few times, like she was using these women as a platform or excuse to talk about herself more.) Then were was a discussion on how they should dress, followed by an “after” picture. And some closing tips from Stacy.
I did notice that were weren’t many pictures of the younger/prettier women. Part of me felt that this was Stacy protecting herself from being photographed with them, especially after reading about her self-professed image struggles. It did have the effect though of making this more of an every-women book showcasing “regular” women.
Downsides: While I found Stacy very relatable and comfortable to read overall, modern morals crept into the book a bit. (Though not as much as some fashion books!) Stacy references “leaving a bad marriage and creating better one” as a positive possible effect of fashion. Marriages aren’t disposable in my book. She also later praises birth control and references the “childless by choice” movement. I can’t think of anything more depressingly selfish. She also references having sex "on the 3rd or 5th dates based on your rules for that”. Umm, how about the wedding night?
I will give Stacy props for recognizing the failed promises of the feminist movement through. She notes (and I agree) that women use to be expected to be Supermothers. Now we are expected to be Supermothers AND Superpeople (excelling at careers & every other area of life). The feminist movement just placed more expectations on us. How many women do I know that would love to be home with their kids, but their husband expect them to work (and raise the kids) -- thanks feminists. I may be taking her argument a bit farther than she did, but I find it refreshing when a celebrity is grounded. She seems to have a conservative bend that is best expressed in what she doesn’t say or endorse. Stacy also has a hardness to her that I admire. She seems to be able to pick up on things and isn’t afraid to call a spade a spade. Would you want fashion advice from anyone else?
Overall, I’d like to have Stacy London as an ally in my style corner. She relatable and reliable. There were many tips from this book that I found useful.
July 29, 2014
Stacy London
The Truth About Style
Anyone who reads this book would retitle it, something along the lines of Everything You Always Wanted to Know About Stacy London, Especially Her Thoughts About Style.
London, former co-host of What Not to Wear, begins with 12 pages about her childhood, from her early days of glamour to her battle with psoriasis in seventh and eighth grades (a time of agonizing peer criticism, I’m sure you’ll remember). By the way, her silver streak of hair dates from that time. Later London tells more about her eating disorders and her career in style magazines, which led her to What Not to Wear.
The purpose of the book is to encourage women to feel confident about themselves, with personal style as one step in reaching happiness.
London chose nine women to help in this project. Each chapter begins with a “before” photo of the woman, along with her application letter. [I’ll bet those were revised or invented.] Then Stacy explains why she chose this woman: eating disorders, relationship disasters, midlife crisis, professional goals. London goes on to describe how she relates to this woman’s issue, and she offers encouragement.
The “style” aspect is rather limited. Almost every chapter offers the same advice: Buy well-made clothes that fit well. Have clothes altered. Wear high heels to look confident and to make yourself stand up straight. Wear statement accessories. Each chapter closes with an “after” photo, facing a page that explains “Why This Works.”
At the end of the book, London provides a shopping guide that lists dozens of stores and brands to try, as well as credits for the specific items shown in the book.
Summary: The Truth About Style is more about confidence than about fashion.
The Truth About Style
Anyone who reads this book would retitle it, something along the lines of Everything You Always Wanted to Know About Stacy London, Especially Her Thoughts About Style.
London, former co-host of What Not to Wear, begins with 12 pages about her childhood, from her early days of glamour to her battle with psoriasis in seventh and eighth grades (a time of agonizing peer criticism, I’m sure you’ll remember). By the way, her silver streak of hair dates from that time. Later London tells more about her eating disorders and her career in style magazines, which led her to What Not to Wear.
The purpose of the book is to encourage women to feel confident about themselves, with personal style as one step in reaching happiness.
London chose nine women to help in this project. Each chapter begins with a “before” photo of the woman, along with her application letter. [I’ll bet those were revised or invented.] Then Stacy explains why she chose this woman: eating disorders, relationship disasters, midlife crisis, professional goals. London goes on to describe how she relates to this woman’s issue, and she offers encouragement.
The “style” aspect is rather limited. Almost every chapter offers the same advice: Buy well-made clothes that fit well. Have clothes altered. Wear high heels to look confident and to make yourself stand up straight. Wear statement accessories. Each chapter closes with an “after” photo, facing a page that explains “Why This Works.”
At the end of the book, London provides a shopping guide that lists dozens of stores and brands to try, as well as credits for the specific items shown in the book.
Summary: The Truth About Style is more about confidence than about fashion.
April 4, 2013
I stumbled across this book at the library earlier this week and thought it might be a fun read; Stacy London delivered just what I was looking for. I have been a fan of What Not to Wear for years, and Stacy's narrative voice in her book was a kinder, gentler version of the tough love she and Clinton Kelly dispense on the show. I appreciated the insight into Stacy's own formative experiences and her diagnoses of the underlying obstacles to personal growth that manifested as style conundrums for the clients profiled in The Truth About Style.
It may be time for me to turn the start-over style lens on myself next. I lost my job a few weeks ago, and since then I have noticed that I've been wearing quirkier, more youthful clothes than I would have chosen for work days. I have unconsciously gravitated toward pieces I have owned since high school or college, and the resulting looks remind me of the title characters' styles on Blossom or Nickelodeon's Sabrina the Teenage Witch (two 1990s shows I loved). Those actresses have long since grown up and moved on. It seems obvious to me that I no longer belong in that clothing comfort zone either; however, I lack a clear sense of what my current style should be. I know how to dress for work, but I don't need to do that now. I am unsure how to dress casually but still look put together on a daily basis without reverting to my teenage style. A wardrobe spring cleaning is in order.
It may be time for me to turn the start-over style lens on myself next. I lost my job a few weeks ago, and since then I have noticed that I've been wearing quirkier, more youthful clothes than I would have chosen for work days. I have unconsciously gravitated toward pieces I have owned since high school or college, and the resulting looks remind me of the title characters' styles on Blossom or Nickelodeon's Sabrina the Teenage Witch (two 1990s shows I loved). Those actresses have long since grown up and moved on. It seems obvious to me that I no longer belong in that clothing comfort zone either; however, I lack a clear sense of what my current style should be. I know how to dress for work, but I don't need to do that now. I am unsure how to dress casually but still look put together on a daily basis without reverting to my teenage style. A wardrobe spring cleaning is in order.
March 3, 2013
Interesting, but a strange mix of touching and narcissistic. Stacy shares the stores of a handful of women she's provided a makeover for in the process of writing the book, discussing issues that face women both practically (budget, size) and psychologically (past traumas and body dysmorphia) and ways to address them.
Much of the advice was about as down-to-earth as I've read in a fashion book, and encouraging women to embrace individuality, color/print, and the fun of fashion. I felt that London did a good job illustrating how fashion/style can actually be contextually important, helping women transition through stages of their lives and reinventing themselves, which I found surprisingly sensible. Basically the opposite of the judgey, snarky, proscriptive attitude of the tv show!
Stacy shares a lot of personal information throughout the book. The basic chapter layout is a discussion of the woman being made over, an explanation of loosely related personal or professional challenges Stacy herself has faced, results of and information about the makeover.
This book won't change your life, but it may surprise you, and even give you a few ideas. Anybody up for a shopping date?
Much of the advice was about as down-to-earth as I've read in a fashion book, and encouraging women to embrace individuality, color/print, and the fun of fashion. I felt that London did a good job illustrating how fashion/style can actually be contextually important, helping women transition through stages of their lives and reinventing themselves, which I found surprisingly sensible. Basically the opposite of the judgey, snarky, proscriptive attitude of the tv show!
Stacy shares a lot of personal information throughout the book. The basic chapter layout is a discussion of the woman being made over, an explanation of loosely related personal or professional challenges Stacy herself has faced, results of and information about the makeover.
This book won't change your life, but it may surprise you, and even give you a few ideas. Anybody up for a shopping date?
February 20, 2013
Come for the tips, stay for the self-actualization. Stacy London is smart, funny, and has a great eye, but she also has a kind heart that has been through the shit. My favorite parts of this book are the bits and essays of memoir strewn amongst the how-to stories: the alienation from others she felt as a pre-teen struck by severe psoriasis; the alienation from her own body that she felt through the binging and starvation that accompanied her dysmorphia in young adulthood. London's name is listed as sole author, and the voice throughout feels very much hers, but the top credit in the back—to freelance writer Valerie Frankel—suggests that this book was very much a collaboration. Whatever. It's a great one, with useful tips, absorbing stories, and massive doses of inspiration. (And I say this not having liked the final, "AFTER" outfits much at all.) I'd let Stacy London style my bald self any day, mostly for the pleasure of hanging out with her. Delightful!
November 23, 2013
Here is how I came to read this book: 1. My husband was busy, 2. I love Trinny and Susannah, of the British What not to Wear, 3. I found the American What not to Wear on Netflix and started watching it. There are no British accents, but I like it. 4. I put all of Trinny and Susannah's books on hold at the library and found Stacy London's, too.
And now my rewiew: I quite enjoyed this book. I read it in two days. It has a lot of body-type specifics that will only apply to a portion of women, but those are couched in honest, revealing and personal stories about the women in the book. Also, honest, revealing and personal stories about Stacy London - who, by the way, I now Love. This book was very autobiographical for her. (and she's totes cool, funny, smart, beautiful and introspective)
I will read more from her and watch more American What not to Wear based on my style-respect for Stacy London.
And now my rewiew: I quite enjoyed this book. I read it in two days. It has a lot of body-type specifics that will only apply to a portion of women, but those are couched in honest, revealing and personal stories about the women in the book. Also, honest, revealing and personal stories about Stacy London - who, by the way, I now Love. This book was very autobiographical for her. (and she's totes cool, funny, smart, beautiful and introspective)
I will read more from her and watch more American What not to Wear based on my style-respect for Stacy London.
August 17, 2016
I’ve had a girl crush on Stacy London for a decade. (Wow, that’s a long time). To say that and just now be reading her book, The Truth About Style, is sad, but better late than never! This book isn’t a “how to have style and be cool” book; instead it’s a personal memoir. From a childhood filled with an extreme case of psoriasis, leaving crusty, red bumps all over her skin to an eating disorder to how society feels about her being single in her 40s. The reader sees a behind-the-scenes version of Stacy with, of course, the famous Stacy humor tied in. In this book, Stacy also helps nine women with common style issues/ruts she’s seen throughout the years as a stylist (petite, plus-size, mom-on-the-go, illness, newly divorced, etc.) and helps them transform their style, not to just have a better wardrobe, but to help them gain confidence through clothes. I really enjoyed this read (read it in a day) and I leave the book still wanting Stacy London to be my best friend.
February 7, 2017
I don't know what I expected, but this book definitely surprised me. I didn't know a book about style and fashion would have so much heart--shows how little I know. Stacy gets real with her own story and the stories of 9 women selected based on their letters to her for a style "start over." There is advice for many different kinds of women and different body types. What I liked about this book was the idea that improving your personal style can help you see the best in yourself and then you can create your best life. I felt encouraged to get to know the body that I have, take it for what it is and then go from there.
3.5 Stars
3.5 Stars
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