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A Student’s Textbook of Textile Science by A J Hall

Exactly what it says on the tin. Easy to understand and a great reference book when I get lost in S and Z twists! 

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Fashion Now 2 edited by Terry Jones and Susie Rushton

A book bought for me by my brother. A ‘coffee table’ book. Great images selected by i-D. 160 designers, very interesting read but as the text is so small, I found myself flicking through most of it. One to keep. 

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The Batsford Book of Sewing by Ann Ladbury

An old school book I bought in a charity shop because I think the old methods are often the best and the most logical. Straightforward book with diagrams and easy to follow instructions with great explanations of different sewing techniques.

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Metric Pattern Cutting for Women’s Wear by Winifred Aldrich (5th Ed)

For those who don’t know where to start, or who have some experience in pattern cutting and want to keep creating. An easy to follow book, with terminology explained, size charts and pattern cutting for almost every traditional style under the sun. 

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Fashion since 1900 by Valerie Mendes and Amy de la Haye

A book I used throughout all four years of Uni. Great reference book and very interesting. Photos throughout make it easier to read. Would recommend for any Fashion History classes.

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Design Your Fashion Portfolio by Steven Faerm

A must have for all fashion students (not just those in final year). Has tips, examples and is simple to follow. Methods to designing and building your own collection. Provides a great framework and foundation for study.

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Lean In by Sheryl Sandberg

A great book, inspirational, personal and witty. Changed the way I see things and the way I present myself in a male dominated ‘arena’. When I dwell on the past it makes me understand where I could have improved my behaviour for a better outcome for everyone. But with the past aside, I look to the future for better things and sitting at the table. Highly recommended for both men and women. 

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Interior Design Course by Mary Gilliatt

A very informative and well laid out book (surprise, surprise!). When I was considering studying interior design, another gift from my brother. I think he’s been trying to tell me that I need to read more. All these years and it’s only now that I understand. I blame the internet entirely. A good book divided into manageable sections which at the time of my little understanding of the subject really opened my eyes. Highly recommend.

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What Every Woman Should Know by Christopher and Kirsty Hudson Edited by Sarah Rickayzen

Newspaper clippings, photographs and illustrations of the 1930s covering cookery, home, lifestyle, fashion and beauty. A great insight into the trends of the era and very well put together. Fascinating book. 

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A Corner of the Heart by Jessica Stirling

The 1930s and the approach of war is intertwinned with love and friendship. A great read for this era’s lovers. 

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Silk by Penny Jordan

Another on my 1920s guilty pleasures. From Cheshire to London to Hong Kong, to Cannes and many more wealthy destinations. Macclesfield also gets a mention! Some name dropping including Harry Selfridge, The Dolly Sisters and Cecil Beaton. Scandalous and fabulous.

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Last Dance with Valentino by Daisy Waugh

My 1920s phase begins and I delve into this gem. From England to New York City this book is what you need for American glitz and glamour of this era. Romantic and charming, a great book. 

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Luella’s Guide to English Style by Luella Bartley with illustrations by Zoe Taylor and Daniel Laidler

So I will admit, this shouldn’t really be here, as I haven’t read it all yet. It’s one of those books that I would lug about, to and from work. Lug being the key word here, as unlike the majority of my fellow commuters, I did not have a tablet at the time, and a traditional book would suffice until I realised the sheer weight comparison. Saying this I’d rather have a tangible book in my hands. 

And what a beautiful book it is. So personal and warm. A great comfort, when in London Thursday is the new Friday, your train is half empty and amongst all the other seats on the carriage, that drunk plum had to topple his way into the seat right next to you. 

I loved reading this book. The reason I stopped was purely because my journey to and from London had ended and I was to return to my studies. Reading for pleasure was not on my agenda at this time of my life and so I stopped. Thank god I have realised it’s benefits. Let the reading recommence. 

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Jonathan Livingston Seagull by Richard Bach and photographs by Russell Munson

I think every time I read this book I try too hard to understand it. I try hard to think about how it relates to me, to people. And I become so confused. 

Having read the back of the book I expect to feel enlightened, excited, satisfied and uplifted when I finish reading the story. But each time I finish I end up baffled. I get it’s not supposed to be literal. And by reading the back I understand the jist of the story. But at the same time I put my hands up and say I just don’t get it. Maybe that in itself is what I need to practice? 

I’m hoping that one day I’ll read it and like Fletcher I too will smile and my race will begin. Maybe its just begun? Who knows. 

This lack of understanding is entirely within me. I would expect the majority to not even think twice about this book’s meaning. I hear my brother screech ‘but it’s so obvious’. The book is beautifully put together and I would recommend the read (even if, to explain it to me in a way i’ll understand).

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Lessons of a Lipstick Queen by Poppy King

An inspiring book which tells of the growth of Poppy King Industries and the rise of one of Austrailia’s most famous entrepreneurs. A manual for those wanting to start up a business but don’t know where to start or even if their idea has much credibility.

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The 1920s Scrapbook compiled by Robert Opie

A large book with brightly coloured and well edited pages. A pleasure to look through. Writing is kept to a minimum to allow you to fully absorb the images. I scanned some of the pages and they make great posters. 

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Never Leave the House Naked by Anneloes van Gaalen

Bought for me by my Brother. A comical book which pokes fun at the silly fashion rules which we over hear and pass on. As children listening to mothers and grandmothers. And as students gossiping around school. Forget the rules and just get on with it.