Style A to Zoe

My very first post was about Rachel Zoe. She is so passionate about what she does, which is why I idolize her like I do. For Christmas, I received her book “Style A to Zoe: The Art of Fashion, Beauty, & Everything Glamour” which really gave me a new outlook not only about fashion, but about the smaller things in life. This post is partly a review of the book plus some of my favorite quotes and tips from Rachel Zoe.

The one thing this book continuously reiterates is to follow your dreams. Know where you want to be in the future and figure out how to get there. I think that’s a very important thing to keep in the back of your mind and never give up on anything you want in life.

My favorite quote from Rachel’s book: “I was always the overdressed one among my friends. But that’s who I was.” This quote really stuck out to me because I am definitely the overdressed one wherever I go.
But I get to wear clothes I love and personalize my outfit with various accessories which is what I love to do (why I want to be a stylist perhaps?) so I never mind being overdressed.

GENERAL OVERVIEW:

  • If you know anything about Rachel Zoe, she absolutely loves accessories. This is most likely why the first chapter in the book is dedicated to accessories. This includes shoes, jewelry, handbags, hats, belts and everything in between. She talks about essential pieces, where to splurge vs. where to save, how to pick out good vintage jewelry and so much more.
  • The second chapter, “Life is a Red Carpet,” is all about looking at life as an opportunity to dress up and show off your creativity and personal style. You never know who you’ll run into so it’s important to look your best at all times.
  • The next chapter discusses looking appropriate yet fashionable in the workplace. This covers everything from appropriate clothing, shoes, handbags, jewelry, etc. This is very important for the every day woman.
  • Traveling is something Rachel loves to do but she rarely has the time. She dedicates a chapter to jetsetting which includes how to pack, what to bring depending on destination weather, and much more.
  • Not only does Rachel choose the entire outfit (clothing plus every accessory) for her clients, she also has a say in makeup and hair as well. This is what the next chapter discusses. It’s important to know what makeup is essential for your skintype and what you feel most comfortable in. I personally could not live with concealer and mascara but those may not be essentials for everyone else.
  • Rachel used to have her studio in her home which can be very hectic. She dedicates an entire chapter to home décor and how to create an atmosphere at home to always make you feel comfortable and relaxed. Very important!
  • The second to last chapter is about entertaining at home which made me want to throw a dinner party immediately after reading. From throwing a cocktail party to getting dressed in the morning, Rachel really knows how to do it best.
  • Last, Rachel goes through each letter of the alphabet (hence A to Zoe) stating an important aspect of style for each. My favorite is “G” for Good deeds and Gutsy. It’s important to try and do at least one good deed everyday and it’s just as important to take risks in life and be gutsy.

Throughout the book Rachel gives numerous tips and checklists from “Inside the Stylist’s Toolbox” to how to pick out a fabulous vintage piece. If I still haven’t convinced you to get book, the pictures are just amazing. There are personal pictures of Rachel with her husband, Rodger, amazing photos of her clients in their gorgeous Red Carpet gowns and many more…you just have to wait and see!

This is my favorite picture (I took on my phone) of Rachel and Brian Atwood. I love it because she looks gorgeous and I think Brian Atwood makes some amazing shoes.

So what do you think? Have you read “Style A to Zoe” yet? Will you after reading this post? Let me know your thoughts!

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