Men's Wardrobe
by Kim J. Johnson, Jeff Stone

Publisher:  Random House
ISBN:  0679445765

Men's Wardrobe is written and photographed for the man seriously interested in gaining the sartorial advantage. Its combination of lush photos, pithy tips ("A suit is only as good as its fabric") historical insight (the Duke of Windsor brought suede shoes into vogue in the '30s) and splendid, classic ensembles make this installment from the Chic Simple team an enjoyable, stylish read.

Men's Wardrobe centers around the building of a traditional wardrobe that will withstand the test of fads and a system of being knowledgeable, organized and yes, very chic.

"Classic clothes don't have to be boring or predictable," reads the book. But be forewarned: the level of elegance this book attains to doesn't come cheap. The cashmere, fine wools, camel hair and dress shirts from London a wardrobe of distinction demands are not for the light of wallet.

However, the taste level of the book is truly superior and aspires to an almost forgotten level of gracefulness in gentlemen's attire replete with pipes and paisley silk smoking jackets.

Most men can probably skim the casual and sporty dressing chapters and digest most of the denim and polo shirt information rather quickly.

The meat of the book is in giving the corporate man an edge in choosing a fabulous suit, shirt and shoe wardrobe, as well as the appropriate furnishings. Color, pattern, style and fabric recommendations are useful as are descriptions of flattering looks for certain body types. "Plaid is your enemy, pinstripes are your friend," it instructs the heavyset man.

The evening section is another informative section and addresses everything from tuxedo basics and bow tying to elegant topcoats and even what type of lighter a sophisticated man should carry, regardless of whether or not he smokes.

For beginners and intermediate dressers, the glossary terms about the myriad fabrics and silhouettes available, as well as fine men's shopping resources, are invaluable. While a women may be comfortable knowing obscure terms in regards to her wardrobe, a man may be baffled by such outerwear terms as hacking and reefer (the first being the popular tweed sport coat and the second a slim overcoat of wool or cashmere).

Men's Wardrobe is equally appealing as a great gift for both the fashion disinclined and the clothes conscious man.

Cynthia Nellis, your Guide for Fashion