REVIEWS | The Prom Book by Lauren Metz

It's that time of year again for you high school folks: Prom. And as an employee working a retail job, I see so many of you girls looking for your dresses and I'm a little envious - I wish I had fancy occasions to get all dolled up for (aka an excuse to buy lovely new dresses...). Anyways, I remember those good old times, especially those weeks leading up to the big night - the excitement, the anticipation...and the stress.

To help with your planning, prom pro Lauren Metz has created exactly what you need. She is the author of The Prom Book, a guide to help you make sure you're all set for that special night. From picking your outfit and working with a budget to organizing your transportation and hosting a pre-prom party, Lauren is the closest thing to your fairy godmother.

Fun fact about Lauren: She attended three proms within seven days during high school and she has worked for Seventeen Magazine.

Take a look inside The Prom Book:

It's also full of space for you to jot down notes, appointment dates, style inspiration and even spots to put your memories even after the event is over!

I thought I'd join in on the fun, so here are a couple of my fave prom dress ideas from Topshop:

Left:  "Delicate Organza Prom Dress" - $120 CAD

Right: "Limited Edition Dip Hem Bandeau Dress" - £175.00 UK

 And for a special flashback Friday...this is what I wore to my prom:

Dress: BCBG

Heels: Stuart Weitzman

Enough about me...it's your turn. So for you ladies out there planning their proms, I definitely recommend picking up a copy of The Prom Book to guide you along the way. 

Check it out here: www.zestbooks.net/the-prom-book

You can also find Lauren Metz on Twitter: @itslaurlaur

- Christina

Follow my adventures on Twitter: @christinaaa28

REVIEWS: The Book of Styling

As a lover of fashion and all things related to that wonderful, yet super competitive, industry, I have come across many moments where I've considered a possible career path down that direction. And although I have always loved the idea of pulling out unique pieces of clothing and putting them together to create amazing outfits (often spending way too much time in my closet), I've never really looked into what goes into becoming a professional stylist. Has anyone else thought that they have what it takes to be the next Rachel Zoe or Andrea Lieberman?

Well, before even taking a stab at styling someone else, you should definitely get to know your own personal style and fully grasp the concept of understanding what goes into that perfect outfit or look that you're going after. Where better to start than going through your own wardrobe? Everyone needs to start with the basics and this brand new book takes you through that process - helping you on your way towards fabulous days of successful styling!

The Book of Styling
An Insider's Guide to Creating Your Own Look
BY SOMER FLAHERTY

From beginning to end, The Book of Styling is a great go-to guide with tons of tips and helpful advice. It starts at Chapter One with 'The Stylist Explained,' giving you a background of what exactly is the role of a stylist. From there, you go through other informative chapters full of fantastic illustrations, fun fashion element break-downs and even spaces to create your own mood boards.  She ends with the chapter on styling as a career and gives you that little kick to actually get out there and start making things happen!

Take a peek:

 

About the author:

Somer Flaherty is an accomplished fashion stylist based in LA, where she also teaches journalism at the Academy of Art University. She has more than 10 years of experience in the fashion industry and her work as a stylist has appeared in various magazines, advertising campaigns and catalogues.

Published by Zest Books, The Book of Styling officially comes out next Wednesday, September 26th.

So whether you're just starting out in the fashion world or want to gain insight from Somer Flaherty, make sure to grab your own copy of The Book of Styling!

For more info: http://zestbooks.net/the-book-of-styling/

- Christina
Follow my adventures on Twitter: @christinaaa28