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Savvy Chic: The Art of More for Less – A Woman's Guide to Fabulous Living and Smart Spending
From Anna Johnson, the author of Three Black Skirts and Handbags comes an invaluable manual for how to live well and elegantly on a budget. The perfect book for our more frugal times, Savvy Chic celebrates “the Art of More for Less,” illuminating the path to smarter, more creative spending for every woman trying to cut corners and save money, but who still wants to live and look fabulous. Savvy Chic belongs on every woman’s bookshelf, right next to The Modern Girls Guide to Life.
336 pages, Paperback
First published October 19, 2010
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
January 21, 2011
The very first book by Anna Johnson that I've read was Three Black Skirts. And from then, I've been infatuated by her writing and her artwork.
Reading her books makes me feel like she's talking to me personally and her use of words are very poetic and can make my soul sing even when she's describing very mundane things like baking bread.
It was a good book.
Reading her books makes me feel like she's talking to me personally and her use of words are very poetic and can make my soul sing even when she's describing very mundane things like baking bread.
It was a good book.
January 30, 2012
this is a fun book. If you are a reader of meaningful and serious fiction, skip this one: it is a collection of recommendations on how to have a life filled with beauty, good times with friends and family and adventure. True, she's not really as down-and-out as she thinks she is: she lives in Brooklyn, after all. But life as a freelancer in the midst of the excesses of NYC has made her wily and clever in her pursuit of a beautiful life.
Divided into sections on clothes, finding a rental apartment (and making it yours on little cash), socializing, eating, recreation, traveling and such, Anna has lots of advice on cutting the overhead and feeling luxurious by indulging in small binges (for her, that means tea. She is, after all, Australian.).
I saw this book once at an Anthropologie, leafed through it, intrigued, and ordered it via interlibrary loan. Thanks, Charlotte branch of the Rochester library who loaned it to me!
Divided into sections on clothes, finding a rental apartment (and making it yours on little cash), socializing, eating, recreation, traveling and such, Anna has lots of advice on cutting the overhead and feeling luxurious by indulging in small binges (for her, that means tea. She is, after all, Australian.).
I saw this book once at an Anthropologie, leafed through it, intrigued, and ordered it via interlibrary loan. Thanks, Charlotte branch of the Rochester library who loaned it to me!
January 4, 2014
Anna seems like a cool chick: thoughtful, artistic, and daring. Her book isn't quite a page turner; instead, it flows more like a quality conversation with a friend that recalls an old story or two but then interrupts to tell you of a great bargain she's found.
Ten years ago, this book would've been a nice slow read with a cup of tea (spiced up here and there with Anna's sweet illustrations), inspiring you to tackle a corner of your house (or your closet) at a time and make it your own. These days, spending a few hours on Pinterest might be more fulfilling.
Ten years ago, this book would've been a nice slow read with a cup of tea (spiced up here and there with Anna's sweet illustrations), inspiring you to tackle a corner of your house (or your closet) at a time and make it your own. These days, spending a few hours on Pinterest might be more fulfilling.
March 31, 2017
Maybe really a 4.5, but I am seriously enjoying this book! As someone with a super-dee-duper tight budget myself right now, her ideas are a fresh and realistic take on some of the things you have to do and CAN do to stretch a dollar. I am a resourceful, creative person, but I love that someone else is coming up with some terrific ideas too, to still live abundantly when discretionary income is scarce.
May 1, 2014 - All done! Excellent. Due at the library, but will be buying a copy for myself.
P.S. Made the Tuscan Fritatta for dinner tonight. Everyone LOVED it ~ delicious!
May 1, 2014 - All done! Excellent. Due at the library, but will be buying a copy for myself.
P.S. Made the Tuscan Fritatta for dinner tonight. Everyone LOVED it ~ delicious!
October 14, 2014
I feel that whatever I write it will not do this book justice. The insight I have found while flipping through random pages, the rush of content I receive while rejoicing in the language of Anna Johnson has been euphoric. Even the sections of the book that don't quite apply to me, they are still a delight to read. Through this book I have found more joy in the little things, and I treat my(poor)self through wearing lavender oil on hot muggy days, wearing heels on cleaning days, and being savvy and chic everyday. Love love love.
May 22, 2012
Heard great things about this book. Johnson's a gifted writer--her friendly, confident, conversational tone tempts me to read it cover to cover in one sitting. I'm entering a somewhat scary, but exciting new phase in my life (on a tight budget). Savvy Chic seems just what I need. I like the woman I've become, and want to celebrate by dressing and living well, for me, but on the cheap!
November 22, 2017
I really enjoyed this book. The mish-mash of advice, stories, references and recipes was eclectic, but it worked. Some of her advice is silly, but some of it is really good, and all of it is entertaining. I appreciated how it was based in reality - allowing for sweat, kids, and all-too-often, lack of funds. And so good-natured.
Many of her outcomes I had already come to on my own - I can only wish I had read this book when I was in my 20s, so I could have come to them sooner.
My favorite quote: "work wear is a lot like drag" HA. So true.
Many of her outcomes I had already come to on my own - I can only wish I had read this book when I was in my 20s, so I could have come to them sooner.
My favorite quote: "work wear is a lot like drag" HA. So true.
August 22, 2018
Fluff, but sometimes fluff is ok.
January 19, 2019
I loved her style and though it is not one I always find fitting for myself, it is inspiring and encourages my own creativity to be more frugal in everything.
February 10, 2023
Useful to some extent, and curious.
April 13, 2023
I enjoyed it! Everything was very brief and high level so I just looked at it more like inspiration or to spark ideas. It’s now a little old (2010) so certain things have changed a lot!
September 1, 2014
*2.5 Rounding up to 3*
I saw this book... a few years ago I think. It was a month or two before I left Japan, so about 3 years? Anyway, I tend to be cautious about buying books (unless I'm in an airport bookstore, then it's "take a risk), and prefer to research about a book before I get it. This was one of the books that I put on my mental "to Google" list, and then promptly forgot about, with the excitement of moving to a new country.
When I saw this book in Scribd, and got a chance to read it as a part of the subscription library, I jumped at the chance. And well, I'm glad that I didn't plonk down the (rather substantial) amount of cash for this book back then.
Don't get me wrong, Savvy Chic is a nicely written book and I would have loved it - if I had a more bohemian style. While I admire the style, it's not something I wear, and the lifestyle is not something that I live. Which makes the book more or less useless to me.
I would have just enjoyed the book if it weren't for the fact that I disagreed strongly with a few points.
One piece of advice is
Admittedly, this is coming from a Singaporean point of view, but no. If I throw a housewarming, it's to celebrate my new house, and not to get something from my friends. If they ask what they should bring, that's another matter, but I won't demand things. I'd rather buy the wineglass and plate one at a time, while at flea markets and stuff.
Another would be her advice on bargaining. She advises you to bargain, but then remember, the store-owner has to make a living too! It's all very contradictory, and it confused me.
And there are other points, but those I disagreed with because I'm not bohemian, so it's really a personal thing.
Bottom line, if you're bohemian and proud of it, get the book. You'll probably love it. If you're like me, then you may just want to borrow the book first, to see whether it's worth it. Sure it's well-written and amusing, but if you're not going to use the advice, what's it for?
This review was first posted at Inside the mind of a Bibliophile
I saw this book... a few years ago I think. It was a month or two before I left Japan, so about 3 years? Anyway, I tend to be cautious about buying books (unless I'm in an airport bookstore, then it's "take a risk), and prefer to research about a book before I get it. This was one of the books that I put on my mental "to Google" list, and then promptly forgot about, with the excitement of moving to a new country.
When I saw this book in Scribd, and got a chance to read it as a part of the subscription library, I jumped at the chance. And well, I'm glad that I didn't plonk down the (rather substantial) amount of cash for this book back then.
Don't get me wrong, Savvy Chic is a nicely written book and I would have loved it - if I had a more bohemian style. While I admire the style, it's not something I wear, and the lifestyle is not something that I live. Which makes the book more or less useless to me.
I would have just enjoyed the book if it weren't for the fact that I disagreed strongly with a few points.
One piece of advice is
"When you throw a housewarming have each friend bring you a beautiful, completely individual wineglass and plate."
Admittedly, this is coming from a Singaporean point of view, but no. If I throw a housewarming, it's to celebrate my new house, and not to get something from my friends. If they ask what they should bring, that's another matter, but I won't demand things. I'd rather buy the wineglass and plate one at a time, while at flea markets and stuff.
Another would be her advice on bargaining. She advises you to bargain, but then remember, the store-owner has to make a living too! It's all very contradictory, and it confused me.
And there are other points, but those I disagreed with because I'm not bohemian, so it's really a personal thing.
Bottom line, if you're bohemian and proud of it, get the book. You'll probably love it. If you're like me, then you may just want to borrow the book first, to see whether it's worth it. Sure it's well-written and amusing, but if you're not going to use the advice, what's it for?
This review was first posted at Inside the mind of a Bibliophile
January 24, 2015
I, like Anna Johnson, traveled quite a bit in my youth, never living longer than five years in one place. Unlike Anna, though, as an adult, I like having roots and strong community ties (and a bank account, however small it is). I am not a bohemian, although I do love to travel.
Because I am not a bohemian, I had difficulties with parts of this book. The traveling cheap section and flea market hunting section scared me a little -- I have traveled cheaply, and have scoured flea markets, but these are not my usual way of life. I would never sign up with art galleries for the free food, nor take advantage of other such offerings -- this strikes me as dishonest and unfair to the artists.
There is some good advice contained in the book, but what Anna Johnson sees as more for less, isn't always what I see as more for less.
I have many, many talented friends, so I'm more about the barter. Just this week, for the cost of a handmade necklace, I scored six mismatched, handcrafted pottery bowls, one of which is perfect for my homemade yogurt. One of the bowls broke in transit, so it has been glued together and contains ribbon-tied stalks of lavender. Try to find something like that in a flea market!
There are ways to achieve the life you want. Or you can realize how very much you already have.
Actual rating: 2.5 stars, but I rounded up for the colorful and entertaining illustrations.
Because I am not a bohemian, I had difficulties with parts of this book. The traveling cheap section and flea market hunting section scared me a little -- I have traveled cheaply, and have scoured flea markets, but these are not my usual way of life. I would never sign up with art galleries for the free food, nor take advantage of other such offerings -- this strikes me as dishonest and unfair to the artists.
There is some good advice contained in the book, but what Anna Johnson sees as more for less, isn't always what I see as more for less.
I have many, many talented friends, so I'm more about the barter. Just this week, for the cost of a handmade necklace, I scored six mismatched, handcrafted pottery bowls, one of which is perfect for my homemade yogurt. One of the bowls broke in transit, so it has been glued together and contains ribbon-tied stalks of lavender. Try to find something like that in a flea market!
There are ways to achieve the life you want. Or you can realize how very much you already have.
Actual rating: 2.5 stars, but I rounded up for the colorful and entertaining illustrations.
August 6, 2018
I got Three Black Skirts for Christmas the year it came out, I was 17. It has kind of been my bible ever since. Savvy Chic is a gorgeous follow up to TBS, kind of picking up with Anna where she left off. It's not just a "how to" guide to live a luxurious life for less, but part memoir as well. She writes beautifully about her first love, a sculptor, and how he retained the milky stench of the hotel kitchen he worked in no matter how many baths he took; about her wedding that she organised once she found out that the date 22nd September 2004 was a lucky one for her starsign (!); and her nomadic and colourful childhood. People who want more of a "how to" didactic kind of book might not love it - it's far less "how to" than TBS. I, however, got caught up in the rich narrative of the author's life, impressed by how she has lived her life so fearlessly and still lives it with hardwon pride and principles, but she is philosophical about the fact that in choosing freedom, artistic or otherwise, other more material things have had to go by the wayside. This book reminded me that there is a huge difference between being wealthy and being rich. Anna Johnson is rich.
If you like Three Black Skirts, I highly recommend it.
If you like Three Black Skirts, I highly recommend it.
September 11, 2015
I’m in no way an authority on fashion. Instead I tend to emulate the style of others I admire. But there’s one thing I know for certain: minimalism is on the rise. It’s everywhere. And this less-is-more concept is especially dear to my heart because in San Francisco, rent is high and closet space is small. My closet will never look like Carrie Bradshaw’s, and that’s okay. (I wouldn’t know what to do with 90% of those items anyway.)
But thanks to Anna Johnson’s Savvy Chic: The Art of More for Less, I now know which key pieces have staying power and are worth the investment. This book goes beyond the capsule closet and serves as the perfect guide for experienced and wannabe fashionistas alike. Her concept of “chiconomy” can be applied to all facets of life—how to dress, decorate, entertain, and travel in style without breaking the bank.
Just pages into the chapter on the “chiconomy wardrobe” I was ready to race home, purge my closet, and get back to focusing on the basics. For anyone set on enjoying the finer things in life—on a budget—it’s a must read.
But thanks to Anna Johnson’s Savvy Chic: The Art of More for Less, I now know which key pieces have staying power and are worth the investment. This book goes beyond the capsule closet and serves as the perfect guide for experienced and wannabe fashionistas alike. Her concept of “chiconomy” can be applied to all facets of life—how to dress, decorate, entertain, and travel in style without breaking the bank.
Just pages into the chapter on the “chiconomy wardrobe” I was ready to race home, purge my closet, and get back to focusing on the basics. For anyone set on enjoying the finer things in life—on a budget—it’s a must read.
June 13, 2012
If this book was a man I would be in love!!!
I'm a sucker for savy, frugal, time and money saving books, but never have I found one as complete as this. Covering fashion, decor, living arrangements, travel and home entertainment, Anna eloquently speaks of luxury and small comforts on any budget at any age. Some of the tips are familiar, but her message is about enjoying what you have and thinking ethically about what you are out to acquire. It's a must purchase for my home library.
In a time with our throw away culture, she mentions small comforts of baking, reading and tea. Getting in touch with who you are and what you really what is a fantastic message. Highly recommended.
I'm a sucker for savy, frugal, time and money saving books, but never have I found one as complete as this. Covering fashion, decor, living arrangements, travel and home entertainment, Anna eloquently speaks of luxury and small comforts on any budget at any age. Some of the tips are familiar, but her message is about enjoying what you have and thinking ethically about what you are out to acquire. It's a must purchase for my home library.
In a time with our throw away culture, she mentions small comforts of baking, reading and tea. Getting in touch with who you are and what you really what is a fantastic message. Highly recommended.
January 1, 2015
The author is definitely a bit more bohemian in her approach, but you will find some useful tips even if your more straight-laced. She provides some tips for making do with what you have and explains how you and your place can look like you spent more than you really need to. She offers some good websites to check out and a few recipes--not necessarily food recipes. It's actually a fun read and I was surprised to find the tips were not just for those in their early twenties.
July 2, 2013
I bought 'Three black skirts' way back in the day, and thought Anna was a great lady then. This book is even more fun because she allows you glimpses into her childhood, and hysterical stories from her adventures on top of all her advice. And to be honest, it's not really a book about 'Chic', it's really more a book on how to enjoy yourself thoroughly, and pinch pennies till they hollar while doing it.
February 8, 2015
Not your typical frugal living book. Some great ideas and some very wacky ideas. The discussion of the mindset of being creative about ones meager (supply your own definition) existence is never one of austerity, rather the perception of bounty. She is a great storyteller and gives you just enough of the esoteric to lend some depth but not so much that you want to gag.
September 17, 2012
I liked this author's style of writing. But most of the content in the book didn't apply to me. The book felt almost like an autobiography of the author's life style. I liked that the author was honest about the ways she saved money.
September 6, 2016
As a long time vintage shopper (taught by grandma at age 7) I was naturally dawn to this book. There are some great tips on living, lifestyle and style, and I was happy I took the time to read it as I learned some new things. It's a relatively quick read, one you can pick up here and there.
October 10, 2014
Fun book; I found some sections more relevant than others. The entertaining guest section, for instance, wasn't as helpful as the clothing and decorating sections. I'd rather skimp on myself than guests! Despite this, it's right up my alley. Pre-Pinterest for the frugal.
January 25, 2017
There were lots of clever ideas interspersed with illustrations that added to the feel of this book. I picked up a few tips, but some were not so practical. Each reader will gain something different from reading this.
September 4, 2011
One of the best "how-to's" out there!!! Anna amazes me with each page! Great ideas and witty dialog! One of the best purchases I've ever made at Antropologie! : )
February 7, 2011
Food for thought! In the course of reading this book (over the weekend, then) I have purged my wardrobe and reorganised my room. I plan to refer back to this book pretty much indefinitely...
May 2, 2011
loved it! nice fashionable pages and advices! from travel, food, clothing and so much more! THe book for kikay gurls everywhere! next read: Three lIttle Black Skirts also by ANNA! =D
May 4, 2011
Bossy book. Not much in the way of helpful tips unless you're a slave to fashion, IMO. This includes food fashion, believe it or not.
April 1, 2020
A fun, fast read about living well - finding joy in life and pleasure in beautiful things. What is so great is that the author emphasizes that one does not need to be wealthy to live richly.
February 5, 2012
Skimmed, didn't find much useful.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews