Nina Garcia's Look Book: What to Wear for Every Occasion

by Nina García, Rubén Toledo

"We must all listen to Nina Garcia. Sharp and genuine, her advice can make or break an outfit." -Tim Gunn, Fashion Consultant and Mentor of Project RunwayBelieve me-there's pressure when you're deciding what to wear to a meeting with an iconic fashion designer or a member of the press. It can be terrifying. But instead of panicking, I stop, take a deep breath, and remember that I speak "fashion." And by the time you have read this book, you'll be able to speak the language of fashion too, at all the key moments of your life.-from Nina Garcia's Look BookEvery woman, at one time or another, has contemplated an all-important job interview, first date, formal party, or important presentation and wailed to herself and to her closest girlfriends, "What should I wear" In Nina Garcia's Look Book, style guru Nina Garcia solves this universal quandary with an inspired and unbeatable combination of fashion knowledge and common sense. She shows us the pieces, the accessories, and the strategies to create the looks that will take us from the first day on a job through the day we ask for a raise and beyond, from the first time we meet our boyfriend's parents (or his children) through the day we see our own children walk down the aisle. With Nina by your side, you can't go wrong. You'll have all the tips you will need to navigate every day looking your best. True style is not about having a closet full of expensive and beautiful things-it is instead about knowing when, where, and how to utilize what you have.

Genres: Fashion, Nonfiction, Self Help, Coffee Table Books, Lifestyle, Reference, How To

256 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 1, 2010

About the author

Nina García (born Ninotchka García) is a magazine editor who, until August 18th, 2008, acted as the Editor-at-Large of Elle, as well as a judge on the Bravo reality television program Project Runway.

Reviews

[Eileen · Rating 2 out of 5]

Argh, erased review!

Essentially, this book betrays Nina Garcia's lack of ability to consider other points of view. In her brain, all women are rich, live in Manhattan or similar upscale urban areas, dress for professional office jobs, and walk seldom enough to regularly wear ridiculous shoes. She discusses what women should wear for specific occasions, including several occasions that only very highly privileged women would ever experience. For instance, who on earth regularly schedules appointments with possible surrogate mothers? Only wealthy celebrities. Not you. This book is not for you.

The self-centeredness reaches a peak when she discusses what to wear to your child's graduation party. Garcia flatly says you should consider this a celebration for yourself, giving a whole sector of women a push toward astounding selfishness. Go ahead! You deserve it! Can you imagine a mother who would upstage her own kid on such a major occasion? I mean, go ahead and wear a great dress, whatever, but your child's graduation is about their achievement, not yours.

UGH. No.

[K · Rating 1 out of 5]

I feel like this book was more about "How to Look Like Nina Garcia in Every Situation" than it was a book about fashion.

[RZ · Rating 4 out of 5]

I like Nina Garcia. Some rules is quite helpful especially in the work environment. In the end, four tips of everyday life are: be comfortablr, be confident, profer fit is vital, and wear it like you mean it.

[Relyn · Rating 4 out of 5]

My favorite thing about this book is Ruben Toledo's art. His watercolors of high-stylin' fashionistas are wonderful. I had never heard of Nina Garcia before, (no TV, remember) so I didn't know what to expect when I read about her book on Mary Jo's blog. Everyone seemed to gush about it and when I got to my library website there was a huge backlog of requests for it. That certainly made me curious. While I don't necessarily think that the women I know need a book to tell us what to wear on each occasion, it was kind of fun. And, now that I think about it, the book was packed full of great advice. Hmmmm.... as I think about what to tell you about it, I have to go from three stars to four. Read this book. It's like having a very cool older sister who always looks great.

[Lauren Williams · Rating 4 out of 5]

Dress Well and Declutter that Closet!

I believe that some women have a better chance of filling their closets wisely, thus avoiding clutter, by gaining knowledge about how to dress and shop. Nina Garcia’s Look Book is one of the books I would recommend to such a client. It is a funny, highly personal look at what-to-wear fashion: pants vs. dresses, when to go casual, time-honored tips, tricks and all. Look Book is indeed arranged by occasion, from job interview to New Year’s Eve Party. The occasions are grouped by themes such as “life events.”

But Ms. Garcia, the fashion director of Marie Claire magazine and a judge on Lifetime Television’s Project Runway, goes far beyond fashion. She offers opinions on everything from how to ask for a raise to surviving meeting your significant other’s parents; honors her charities of choice; and decorates her pages with irreverent, wise, timeless quotes of gifted people ranging from Amelia Earhart to Lauren Bacall. The quotes could be a book in themselves.

A reader will not, however, find guidance on how to dress. There are no formulas for accommodating body-shape, no hints about color choices. Unhappily, Ms. Garcia also engages in the common, bewildering-to-the-outsider habit of name-dropping – designers and their styles are referenced as if they are a reader’s quirky family members. And like many style editors, Ms. Garcia assumes that everyone knows the basics, concerning pattern, fabrics, etc., as she converses about options. I for one wish someone would explain bouclé. The book is not for beginners, but it is educational and entertaining.

Lauren Williams, Owner, Casual Uncluttering LLC, Woodinville, WA USA

[Heidi Williams · Rating 2 out of 5]

I can look past the extensive advice for cocktail parties, black-tie events, and other trappings of a wealthy NYC lifestyle that simply doesn't apply to the occasions in my life. I wasn't able to look past the places where this book moved from fashion advice to tips that were border-line neurotic! The 2 most baffling examples I noticed being: 1. read up on various camera types before a party, and before your friend that was taking pictures leaves, ask to borrow the camera then 'accidentally' delete any photos you don't like yourself in. and... 2. you can still be a good host from your hospital bed. Make sure to pack individual baggies of snacks or boxes of chocolate to pass out to friends and family that come visit you in the hospital.
2 stars because of the moments like these that seem to me to encourage an unhealthy obsession for appearances. But not one star because it is still possible to glean some useful information when the book sticks more on topic and lists materials, cuts, and silhouettes that work well for various occasions.

[S · Rating 2 out of 5]

It may surprise people that I would pick up a book like this - I have a style of my own, and I don't much care what people think.
However, when I thumbed through it there was a section on what to wear to get your hair cut.(!) I thought: What?? Was there a rule or secret I was missing?

Turns out, not so much. But she does a good job of bringing practical perspective to dressing for different occasions. I could see how this book might actually give you a head start if you come across it when you are in your late teens or just out on your own.

Of course, some of it is ridiculous bunk, but you just have to go in with a sense of humor and be able to retain what resonates for you. And one thing I do appreciate about certain fashion/style books like this, is the jaunty, fling-your scarf around attitude. Don't forget you're beautiful! Be smart - clothes are about more than covering. Treat yourself well, and wear it well! Advice that never hurts.

If you enjoyed this, then definitely check out:
Savvy Chic by Anna Johnson
and
How to Get Dressed by Alison Freer

[Agnes · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was the perfect bedtime book for me, easy to read, easy to pick back up, and there's pictures!

Nina Garcia is a class act and a fashion icon herself.

I appreciate that this was more about cut of clothing or type of shoe than designer. While she did name a few designers this really was advice for ANY budget. She very often discouraged logo handbags-which I hate!
She said NOT to go out and buy a new outfit for a first date because it should be something you've worn, something that feels like you.

I don't know if there was anything really surprising that I didn't know, but good solid advice on putting your best outfit forward for many occasions.

[J · Rating 2 out of 5]

Ugh. Another Nina Garcia fashion book. See my review of The One Hundred.

I like the concept of this book - classic looks for different social situations. But Nina's personal sense of style clashes with mine.

From the impossibly tall and thin illustrated models to the advice on Fabergé eggs for Easter, this book just annoyed me.

[Teresa Ballantyne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Surprisingly Down to Earth great advice

I found this book to be down-to-Earth, practical, easy to read, and full of good advice. I may never find myself in some of the scenarios, but you never know where life will take you it's good to know that to wear when it surprises you. I very glad I bought this book and recommend it.

[Sami · Rating 1 out of 5]

Checked it out from the library because of the cute illustrations hoping to use it to help me develop ideas to incorporate into a capsule. Found it lacking not only for capsule wardrobes but there was nothing new or inspiring that can't be found in any fashion magazine already. Meh.

[Why R · Rating 3 out of 5]

Can't say I learned a lot, but her tone is fun (if over the top) and Ruben Toledo's illustrations are great! I definitely got more out of "The One Hundred: A Guide to the Pieces Every Stylish Woman Must Own" than this one.

[Booklover · Rating 3 out of 5]

Great book, great illustrations and yes, she does cover every occasion possible. Enjoyed very much.

[Duckpondwithoutducks · Rating 3 out of 5]

A lot of good ideas, but I like a fashion book to actually have pictures of outfits.

[Riapurwanti Jamin · Rating 5 out of 5]

From casual to funeral.
I got everything here.

[Sheila Hegarty · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love all things from Nina Garcia and the illustrations are top notch, as always.

[Mary · Rating 3 out of 5]

An interesting read post-pandemic. A reminder to come out of our pajamas and sweat pants.

[Rebecca Eve · Rating 5 out of 5]

The best modern guide for what to wear anywhere.

Pros: If you've ever wondered what to wear to an afternoon garden wedding or how to dress for that job interview, you've probably been able to find some sort of dressing guide to help. But what do you wear to break up with that sweet guy who just isn't right for your? And what about the first day at your new job? How should one dress for a blind date or therapy since both situations will have people making conclusions based on your outfit. This is the first current guide I've found that will tell you what to wear when you meet a potential surrogate or chaperon a school dance.

Nina Garcia has thought of everything, and has worked up a great set of guidelines should your life think up something she hasn't. Best of all, women of all shapes, styles and budgets will find the advice helpful. Not one for a dress? Don't worry, Nina suggests a variety of looks for each occasion and usually includes how to work separates or a dress and even what kinds of coats or shoes work best.

Nina also doesn't make too many hard and fast rules. Yes, society does dictate that you shouldn't wear a bikini to an interview (unless you're interviewing to appear on reality television), but there is plenty room out there for some fashionable rebellion, which Nina highlights throughout the book in a feature called "Rule Breakers We Love." As is usual with Nina's books, this one is also littered with fun fashion quotes.

From the core advice to the tips, tidbits and sidebars, this book is rich with instruction for how to dress yourself, in your style, for any place life may take you.

Cons: This book will have to be updated every decade because as much as Nina tries to stay away from trends, many of these styles will pass. Also, Nina has a habit of referencing designer goods and designers styles. The goods are too expensive for the average reader, and the style of a particular designer can fluctuate drastically from season to season potentially leaving those unfamiliar with a designers "typical" style a bit confused by current offerings.

Also, the travel section with clothing guides for popular destinations is too designer heavy, but perhaps if you can afford those vacations you can afford those clothes.

Overall, a delightful read with few drawbacks.

[Lauren G · Rating 3 out of 5]

I was prepared to completely hate this book, but it was better than expected. I still think the idea of someone else needing to tell you how to dress in general is weird. That being said, there was actually some very good advice in this book.

Almost 100% of the good advice is in the first section of the book which deals with work (interviews, office parties, et cetera). She even made a point I didn't consider that when attending a work party you are trying to network at, wearing too many fantastic jewelry pieces can keep the conversation on what you're wearing instead of on your skills and abilities. Unless you're in the fashion industry, that might not be the best networking conversation. Also, the section on what to wear on a business trip was interesting, because she has a short blurb on what is appropriate business dress in various countries for a woman, and I may not have thought about that (China is really formal, pants and bright colors are most appropriate in India, et cetera). If I ever go on a business trip in the future, I'll think about researching what clothes would be appropriate for that country.

Most of the rest of the book I could have done without. I did find the holiday section interesting only because I learned about various Jewish holidays and what is appropriate level of dress, behavior, and gifts.

Other than that Nina Garcia is definitely opinionated and really only considers options that are her style. The only flats in the world that exist for Nina are pink silk ballet ones, and one should never wear leopard on a first date. While she does talk a lot about do's and don'ts, she then will also stress do what is right for you and for your style, which is nice.

What it comes down to, is if you are a relatively wealthy woman who really digs Nina Garcia's style, you'll simply get more out of this book. From a Fashion Design standpoint, if you want to make clothes for a wealthy woman who dresses like Nina Garcia, this is an in depth look at what considerations she takes in her clothes buying and what sorts of things are in her closet. From that perspective, it is an interesting book.

I wouldn't buy this book, but if you're still interested in reading it, I'd check it out from the library. Even though it looks big, it's a relatively quick read.

[O. · Rating 4 out of 5]

This week was full speed ahead girly mode: bought new shoes, looked at a lot of fashiony pictures online and read Nina Garcia's Look Book. In case you don't know who she is, Nina Garcia is one of the judges on Project Runway and is the fashion director at Marie Claire magazine. In short the woman knows fashion and from what I've seen is pretty good at being practical without compromising style. So naturally I was curious what her choices would be when it comes to all of those instances when we stand in front of our closets trying to figure out what the perfect outfit would be.
Ms. Garcia covers it all: the job interview, the casual Friday and the not-so-casual rest of the work week, the first date, meeting the significant other's parents, various holidays and vacations and even the occasions most of us mere mortals won't ever have an opportunity to attend (a white tie dinner, anyone?). And she knows that it's not just about the clothes, the hair, makeup and underpinnings matter too.
I liked the easy, familiar style of writing, the fact that the author shared little tidbits about her own anxieties and insecurities (yes, apparently even the high-profile fashion editors have those) and gave examples of the stylish women we've all seen on TV and in magazines to illustrate her suggestions. I also liked that she stressed how important it is to always stay true to yourself and not try to be someone else when it comes to fashion choices, and everything else for that matter. Generally speaking Ms. Garcia's suggestions were very common sense - dress for the occasion, keep propriety in mind, and remember that there are times when it's important to not sacrifice comfort.
I would have preferred if the book was illustrated with photographs rather than artist's conceptual drawings because while a drawing is great and Ms. Garcia's references to design houses and trendsetters were helpful, seeing what the author is talking about right there on the page would have been much more fun. After all, not everyone is so well-versed in the work of various couturiers as to immediately understand the references. I, for one, was very happy to have the internet at arm's reach.

Read more of my reviews at Bibliophile's Corner

[Bookblog.ro · Rating 5 out of 5]

Pe Nina Garcia am „cunoscut-o” prima oară atunci când m-am apucat de vizionat Project Runway, reality show-ul care timp de unsprezece sezoane a adunat ce e mai bun dintre designerii aspiranți, pe care a încercat să îi lanseze în lumea modei. Cu o carieră în domeniu ce datează din anii ´80, din care opt ani petrecuți la Elle și aproape șase la Marie Claire, ambele posturi în calitate de Fashion Director, pot să afirm cu încredere că e o femeie care știe despre ce vorbește. Și totuși, experiența vastă și faptul că nu ne-am ciocnit niciodată opiniile, atunci când era vorba de apreciat sau criticat vreo ținută de pe podiumul Project Runway, nu au fost suficient de convingătoare încât să nu deschid cartea cu o oarecare strângere de inimă.

Ei bine, am reușit să mă relaxez rapid după ce am citit primul capitol și am constatat cu uimire și plăcere, în egală măsură, că The Look Book: Ținuta perfectă pentru orice ocazie nu e doar un colaj de ilustrații frumoase (semnate de Ruben Toledo) sau vreun pomelnic sec de articole vestimentare, accesorii sau nume de designeri. E cartea ce se transformă în prietena ta cea mai bună, în mama înțeleaptă sau în sora mai mare și care știe să te povățuiască și să îți recomande o ținută trăznet pentru orice ocazie. Și când zic să te povățuiască, mă refer și la altceva dincolo de replicile clasice care zic că „nu poți da greș cu o rochie neagră”, „geanta și pantofii nu trebuie să se asorteze din perspectiva culorii” sau că „la interviul de angajare nu te duci cu o fustă de o palmă”. Continuarea recenziei o găsești aici http://www.bookblog.ro/recenzie/despr...

[Toni · Rating 3 out of 5]

The bookstore where I worked for the past 11 years recently closed. So I am embarking on a new job search. The other day while fretting over having to update my resume, it occurred to me that not only do I not have an outfit to interview in, my current wardrobe is only appropriate for a Starbucks employee. Because of the dress code at my former job, my closet is full of black polo style shirts and khakis. Right now the only social invitation I can accept from you is one where I'll be making lattes at your dinner party. (And I can, because I am Starbucks/Seattle's Best trained).

It's hard to know where to start when your wardrobe has so many holes in it, so I'm turning to my library of fashion books to help me out. I chose this one for no other reason than it was the first that I laid my eyes on. While it really does cover what's appropriate for certain occasions (job interview, a Netflix night, volunteering, etc.), it also gives some pointers on the appropriate etiquette in those situations.

It wasn't very helpful in setting up a core wardrobe, but once I have that in place, I will refer back to this on how to put it together. And as always, the illustrations by Ruben Toledo are divine!

[Rachel · Rating 3 out of 5]

I was surprised by how much I (as a non-fashion-person) liked this book. Nina Garcia writes with a style that is both authoritative and conversational, and both informational and mildly funny. The strongest section is the first, about how to dress in various work situations. (The part about how to dress and carry yourself for a job interview made me want to go out and start becoming a high-powered business woman like, immediately.) It does eventually start to get repetitive, but it is a book that could easily be kept on-hand as a reference instead of being read straight through. This book made me wish that I had the money or the inclination to go shopping for new clothes, so I imagine somebody who already has either of those things would really enjoy it.

[Ayana · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good book with a lot of useful information. Nina gives you ideas of things to wear for every occasion imaginable like engagement parties, brunch with the girls, Halloween, Valentine's Day (with ideas for both single and attached women), and of course the first date. As a single woman, I think it's kind of hard to think about what you're going to wear on a first date or trying to think ahead to the second, third, or fourth date.

This is definitely a book that I would like to invest in for the future and maybe re-work my wardrobe with some things from the book.

[Andrea · Rating 4 out of 5]

I found this book fun and I really enjoyed Nina's humour. I think people that disliked this book either take it too seriously or don't know that there really are people out there that need help. I think this book is appealing to women about 16 to late thirties. While a lot of the information will seem like common sense to women who have any interest in clothes, there are still some great tips on silly things that sometimes don't seen like a natural reflection of the style that you might want to achieve. I also appreciated the behavior advice and LOVED the illustrations!!!

[Shannon · Rating 2 out of 5]

This book goes section-by-section with advice on what to wear for many of life's big occasions (from a job interview to a baby shower). Ms. Garcia even has a chapter on what to pack for the hospital when you're about to deilver a baby, and I think she did a great job with her advice in that section! However, she recommends purchasing many clothes that cost a lot of money; money that most people who aren't celebrities or millionares have to throw around. So take her advice with a grain of salt, and look for themes and general ideas, and you'll be ok.

[Sonja Isaacson · Rating 3 out of 5]

My problem here is that the majority of her occasions, I've already done. No doubt I wore something Nina wouldn't approve of, but oh well. These occasions she includes are no longer an issue. I would not get this book solely for the "work" chapter which is the only one I feel may be of any use to me. I think this would be better for someone more of a high-school or college-age. As always, the drawings are fantastic. But I worry that Nina thinks they are all her, and that she is still that young.

[Judi Easley · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a great book to keep for reference. It's also a fun read for the fashion conscious to see if they were dressed right according to Nina for that occasion! But if you're the least bit unsure of what you should be wearing for an event, Nina really does give you good solid advice from head to toe. If you're unsure of a reference about a designer, just google them. She's referring to a "look", the usual style of the designer (tailored, feminine, bold, casual, etc.). This can be your road map or your jumping off point. Whichever, Nina gets it right for so many ocassions!

[Bridget · Rating 4 out of 5]

I got this book at the dollar store. I KNOW a whole dollar. I purchased it mainly for the the art work. IT Is amazing. They have a picture of the Queen Elizabeth and I want to blow it up and put it in my room. I love Queen Elizabeth and love the blub about her. Sorry I know alot of women are not working in a major city and need the whole high power outfits but I still like the advice so far. I swear ladies we are way too comfortable now adays. I want to reenact the fifties or mad men in my closet every day. And this book encourages me to do this. Thanks Nina Garcia.

[Jianna · Rating 3 out of 5]

While most people don't need an entire page to tell them "never wear a Snuggie," it's a fun, quick read, and Nina Garcia has a pleasant narrative style. Also, chapters like, "what to wear when you've been cruelly dumped" and "what to wear for a Netflix night in" "what to wear when you're volunteering," etc. do lead me to believe that she did try to address—as the book cover tells us—what to wear for every occasion.