Instyle: The New Secrets of Style

by InStyle Magazine, Jennifer Alfano

Updated with hundreds of new photos and ideas, this resource shows how to develop true personal style that is always uncomplicated and flattering. The guide is the perfect personal fashion companion.

Genres: Fashion, Nonfiction

208 pages, Hardcover

First published October 27, 2009

About the author

InStyle is an American monthly womens fashion magazine founded in 1994.

It is owned by People Inc., and started originally as a brand extension of People before carving out its own identity. In February 2022, it was announced that InStyle would cease print publications and move to a digital-only format.

Reviews

[Robin Ramone]

This book is a good reference for anyone starting out. It’s also helpful to use for writing descriptions if you are selling clothing.

[Cold Cream 'n' Roses]

I read so you don't have to!

This is one of the better books on fashion that I've come across.

Each chapter concerns an item of clothing or accessories. It makes recommendations for your body type. It suggests ways to style clothing and accessories.

There is a comprehensive appendix on fabric care.

[Irene Adler]

I guess style isn't eternal, as this book now looks dated.

The 'flatter you figure' sections are really dodgy, but there is still some mileage in the photos of the various styles of clothing eg 'Coat style primer' pgs 60-63. I did end up just flicking through looking at the pics.

Don't rely on the advice in this book, go your own way.

[ToboReads]

Probably helpful if you have a celebrity/thin body, but most of the advice focuses on how to hide parts of your body. This book is for you if you think people with large arms should only wear long or 3/4 sleeves to look flattering.

[Cherop]

A nicely presented and informative book. It's more about classic style rather than following trends.

[Michelle]

The general style tips given in this book were frustrating. As someone who is short with a small bust, I found that a lot of the advice given to women with those body types conflicted. Glad I didn't pay for this one.

[Colleen]

Eh. Nothing I couldn't get out of my InStyle subscription.

[Aly]

Not like the eccentric Glamour, Little Black Book of Style. More focused on how to hide the negative aspects than how to look good in your own skin,

[Shannon]

Some good pictures. Glad I didn't buy it though. Better to get from the library.

[Jahncie Cook]

A great guide to style and fashion.

[Grace]

A serviceable book with solid advice. It's a good reference book for people clueless about selecting or caring for clothes.