Book Review: ‘Tim Gunn’s Fashion Bible: The Fascinating History of Everything in Your Closet’

I’ve always admired Tim Gunn. His knowledge and taste in fashion is impeccable. Plus, he always has great stories of the fashion world and his own life to share. That’s why I love his books so much. There was no doubt that I was excited for Tim Gunn’s Fashion Bible. It sounded like THE book to own, especially for fashion-lovers. However, I was a little wrong about that. While Tim Gunn’s Fashion Bible is informative and shares some interesting things about the history of everything in your closet, it’s very much geared toward people who need help or are clueless about clothing. As someone who loves fashion (and was at one point a fashion merchandising major), much of the book seemed pretty elementary to me. Some of the history was new; but as far as what to wear and what NOT to wear and trends, well… I already knew all of that.

Chapter by chapter, Tim Gunn discusses each and every essential item of clothing people wear. He begins each chapter with an anecdote (my favorite thing about this book!) and moves on to the origin and history of that particular garment. He finds clever ways to help people remember different types of that article of clothing. For example, he asks the reader if she is either a Cleopatra (tailored) or Helen of Troy (draping) when it comes to dresses. He just doesn’t cover women’s clothes, but men’s as well. And that’s where I learned the most, obviously. Men’s fashion might be less complicated than women’s, but their history is just as vast and changing. In addition, he gives tips on how to wear each item and encourages the reader to always seek for the right fit and never settle.

Gunn knows how to make things interesting, mixing his own stories with the facts and history behind fashion. If you’ve read Gunn’s Golden Rules, you know how practical Gunn is. He’s says it how it is without being condescending or dismissive, which makes his Fashion Bible so encouraging. It’s the perfect book for any “fashion victim or giver-uppers” that are clueless or afraid when it comes to clothes. I find that we either stress out or stop caring when we dress ourselves. No matter what your size is – big, small, tall, short – Gunn will make you believe that you don’t need to be runway model to wear clothes well. By the end, he really brings out a positive and healthy message about looking and feeling good. Even though it was all stuff I knew already; it’s nice to be reminded that there is someone in the fashion industry speaking for the normal girl or guy. In that case, I think Tim Gunn’s Fashion Bible is must-read for everyone.

Rating: 7/10 ★★★★★★★

Tim Gunn’s Fashion Bible is now available where books are sold. You can purchase it at our TYF Store, powered by Amazon.