The One Hundred

So, I just read The One Hundred from Nina Garcia, the cool as a cucumber judge on Project Runway.

I was underwhelmed.

Here's the thing: I have read a lot of fashion and style books. A LOT. And while I am not expecting anything deep or life-altering, I do expect the advice to be grounded in reality as well as good taste. Some of her choices were neither.

I completely agree with many of the One Hundred: A-line dress, cocktail ring, clutch. (Seriously, if you still don't own a damn clutch, I don't know what the heck you are waiting for.)

But leather pants, moccasins, and Missoni knits?! Are you freaking kidding me?

Leather pants: Unless you are an actual rock star or a Hell's Angel, these are totally unnecessary. Even the real ones often look cheap.

Moccasins: Gross. If you own some, yay for you. If not, there's probably a reason. Most likely that they are ugly and again, completely unnecessary.

Missoni knits: I love a designer label as much as the next brand whore, but these pieces start somewhere around $1500 for a dress. The idea that every "stylish woman" must own something this overpriced is not only ridiculous, it's insulting. Several schools of thought exist on the subject of style, obviously, but I subscribe to the notion that all women can be stylish at any price point with creativity and their own personality shining through.

If you can afford a Missoni dress, go for it, but don't sweat it if you can't. Crazy head to toe horizontal stripes aren't my thing, FYI.

Anyhoo, I do not regret my purchase, but I don't think it's the best style read out there.