Fashion Advice from a Project Runway Judge

A Book Review
The One Hundred: A Guide to the Pieces Every Stylish Woman Must Own
by Nina Garcia

I am a Project Runway devotee, and I think Judge Nina Garcia, editor-at-large for Elle Magazine, is one chic lady. I just finished her new book The One Hundred – A Guide to the Pieces Every Stylish Woman Must Own, and loved it. These are the classic items that give her confidence and she can't imagine living without.

I was happy to see that the matte silver, yet blindingly reflective book (I discovered this in the car), did not have a dust jacket. Really, can't we just stop that altogether? The illustrations by Ruben Toledo are beautiful and the book is laid out in an easy to read manner with a nicely engaging tone.

Great Style is Personal
Garcia is very clear about the fact that you must take her list and adapt it to what works for you, as great personal style is just that, personal. The book provides sources galore and ideas on how to wear the items, as well as some fascinating tidbits from fashion history.

Affordable Fashion
I was was pleasantly surprised by this book. It wasn't that I was expecting bad advice or that it wouldn't be a good read. I just thought that maybe my idea of the one hundred items a woman needs and Nina's would be worlds apart in terms of budget.

I was wrong. I opened the book in the middle just to see what I landed on and it was Havaianas, one of the most budget-friendly and satisfying fashion items you can buy. Oh joy! I have about eight pairs of these super-comfortable flip flops that cost only $15.

Sure, there are some big ticket items in the book, but she offers some less expensive options for most of her picks. Obviously, Garcia has access to some of the most expensive fashion in the world like Chanel and Marc Jacobs, but she is a lover of stores like Urban Outfitters, Anthropologie and H & M. It was refreshing.

Take Stock of Your Closet and Stock Up
While I certainly don't have all one hundred, I was thrilled to know I own some key pieces. Frye Harness Boots are in there. I wonder if Nina would approve of my red ones?

Converse sneakers? Yay! I'm feeling more stylish by the moment.

Trench, diamond studs (she says fake is fine), perfect white shirts and tees, little black dress, great jeans, classic handbag? Check.

Garcia-endorsed items I'll be shopping for include an armful of bangles – from J Crew, not Hermes, a boyfriend cardigan, Wolford opaque tights, some jewelry in turquoise and coral, and better luggage. I also really want to get an L.L. Bean tote. Finally. It's been on my to get list for too long now.

Keep it Real
There are some things in the book that will never make an appearance in my closet, because they're just not me. I won't be buying a cape, over-the-knee boots – that's just too much Barb in my Barbarella, fur, or a man's hat. Be honest with yourself and don't worry about following fads. If you feel like a fashion victim when you wear something, it will show.

I hope you get the book and enjoy it as much as I did. As I work on my personal style I plan to heed Nina's parting words. "Repetition is a sign of style." So wear your own one hundred items repeatedly and remember, "You are an original. Start dressing like one."

Laurin is a fashion fanatic and is pursuing her first true passion, writing, after more than 10 years practicing law. Eavesdrop on Laurin and her great friend Kelly at their blog Laurin and Kelly Talk.

Sources: Photo 1, Photo 2

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