Slaves of chic: An A-Z of consumer pleasures

by Joanne Finkelstein

307 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1994

Reviews

[Romany · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book asks us to look more closely at the things around us: the specific (501s, men's shoes) and the general (fashion). It's a reminder that we are encouraged to participate in the "pleasures" of consumerism not for our own individual benefit, but to support the structures of power that surround us. Some of it is already outdated. Some reads as a snapshot of a moment of time (e.g., the chapter on 90s 'retro' fashion). But all of it offers this sure and steady voice that rarely relies on references to the work of others. Which is disturbing, as a librarian. But reads well.