Coffee Table Reads

Illustrated by Jacqueline Davis Moranti

I love a good book, especially on my downtime. Books have a way of sending your mind through a fantasy world, especially if it's an enticing sci- fi novel! Reading is definitely one of my favorite past times, for a period in time, I even thought of myself as a narrative writer, but lets not indulge too much in that old hobby! My passion for reading stems from being such a shy, timid child, spending weekends with my face in a book, very much like one of my favorite childhood movies Matilda. I grew up reading a ton novels by J.R.R. Tolkien, Stephen King, John Saul, and C.S. Lewis. Nothing like getting lost in a different world where animals speak, strange mysteries arise or where elves aren't as friendly as we make them out to be. Although, lately I find myself reading more self help books and biographies. I've rounded up a few of my current, fashionable favorites!

1) Parisienne French, is a must have for any linguistics lover. Ever since traveling to Europe, making many new friendships and exploring the different cultures, I've been obsessed with learning new languages. Thanks to my own family's culture, I'm fluent in Spanish and thirsting to learn more! So far learning the Portuguese language has been achievable, it helps that it's a derivative of the Latin language, as is Spanish. Parisienne French will teach you chic catch phrases, slang and posh vocabulary you'll need to know when making your journey through France! I've yet to go to the lovely city of lights, Paris, but atleast I'll have some knowledge of French before I get there, like how to ask for directions to the best music scene or where to shop for the best heels. All vital information for the linguistics and fashion lover! 

2) The Little Dictionary of Fashion, is a style obsessed, fashionista's bible! It's a dictionary of all the fashion terms you could ever think of. It has helped me improve my fashion vocabulary, immensely. As an illustrator and connoisseur of the fashion world, it helps to know how to describe certain parts of a garment or the correct term for certain hem lengths of skirts and so much more wealth of knowledge.  Makes the world of a difference when blogging or designing the latest fashion trend! 

3) It by Alexa Chung has been the book I've had my face stuffed in for weeks now! I'm a huge fan of miss Chung's style, she's very unconventional and adventurous. Major traits for a true tastemaker. It gives us a look at what inspires the inspiring. I absolutely love that the book was written by Alexa Chung and it features photos taken by her, it feels like I'm taking a glimpse into her personal life. If you're interested in learning about fashion's hottest It girl and just what her specific je ne sais quoi is, then this is the book for you! 

4) Icons of Fashion: The 20th Century is a great inspirational book for the masses. It's a timeline of the best fashion moments from the 20th century, in great depth and with amazing photos! This is a book I constantly frequent when drawing my fashion illustrations, references are key to successful designs. If you know anyone who's as in love with fashion as I am, then this book makes a great gift and resource. 

5) Writing For The Fashion Business, is absolutely one of my favorite resources. This book is technically a textbook, but it's a book anyone in fashion would be proud of owning. It teaches anyone with a foot in the fashion world, how to become an eloquent and articulated writer. It features how to write for tv, magazines, online publications, press releases, media kits, resumes and so many more. All imperative skills to learn, especially as a blogger. Writing is a big deal to me, I'm very keen on making sure I'm presenting myself in the most proper way, especially in written form, it sets a good impression of your self and your business. 

Set any or all of these books on your coffee table and your guests will be pleasantly entertained, they may even want to borrow it too! These books also make great gifts, especially for any fashion blogger! Dear readers, have you recently delved into any of these books? I would love to hear your thoughts. 

PS, stay tuned to Burgundy Whispers for an exciting announcement!