Recommended Reading For Fashionistas

Summers in New Jersey mean hitting the shore and for me, that means keeping occupied under the blaring heat. And while donning a cute bikini might be a prerequisite, so is summer reading. Admittingly, I have a hard time sitting still on the beach... I get bored very easily and if it's an exceptionally hot day, forget it. I'm done in two hours.

However, a good book can keep me glued in my place. If you're a blogger, and like soaking up fashion knowledge and culture, check out these books to add to your summer reading list!

The Satorialist by Scott Schuman

You love his blog, and envy the slue of people he's photographed, so why not take him with you to the beach? If you don't fancy reading books, but rather enjoy picture books, then pick this one up. It's more of a portable coffee table book filled with photos of fashionistas and wanna-bes alike.

From top to bottom: In Style

Valley Of The Dolls by Jacqueline Susann 

Nylon Street View - The New Nylon Book Of Global Style

Of course, a good magazine will do. I recommended In Style for its outfit-inspiring features and beauty tidbits, or Bust magazine for a dash of social commentary and their cover stories.

But back to books... Before Sex And The City, there was Valley Of The Dolls - the O.G. novel about three New York women struggling to make their way to the top during the 50s set around drugs, careers, fame and self destruction. I have yet to see the movie, or read this book, but it's high on my "To Read" list.

As for Nylon Street View, if you're into street style (just like The Satorialist), you'll want this book, which contains photos of stylin' people in major fashion capitals (such as New York, Tokyo and London), as well as local store favorites, quotes and websites. 

The Gospel According To Coco Chanel by Karen Karbo

What better way to get inspired than with a book that explores Coco Chanel's tenacity while giving readers practical life lessons? I'm sold!

Have a book suggestion? Leave it in the comments section!

Friday 5 Day #3 - No Shopping Challenge Edition

I sorta feel like the Bruce Jenner of the No Shopping Olympics. The comments are motivating, so keep 'em coming! When I decided to do this, I figured it was no big deal, but it appears people are really  interested in seeing the outcome.  Either it's because y'all really want me to succeed or would like to see me shop.

And admittingly, the pressure is on to not fail.

Day #3 - No Cravings

So far, so good. Since starting the challenge Tuesday, shopping hasn't crossed my mind. That's probably because I went to the mall Monday and put the challenge into affect that night. And yes, I did buy something - the last hoorah. It was two bath bombs from Lush.

Online browsing hasn't been that heavy. The only sites I viewed were Solestruck.com and LorisShoes.com, after receiving an email about limited edition Jeffrey Campbells....Would I love a pair of his shoes? You bet. But right now (ask me later), I'm not sad that I can't shop. I'll just admire from afar.

The trick that'll carry me the farthest during my shopping exile is my "Reserve Pile." This is collection of clothes, shoes and accessories still sitting in bags in my closet, waiting to be worn. Just think of it as a "Break In Case Of Emergency" type situation.

So, since I'm not spending, here's my Friday 5 of what I would buy if I could. But do me a favor: Don't tell me if you went shopping and snatched up one of my desirables. I might lose it. Especially #4. = P

1. Jeffrey Campbell El-Carmen

Beauties, aren't they? I'm putting this in my "Didn't Shop for 30 Days So Reward Yourself With This" category.

2. The Editor - A Blogging Planner

Photo via http://theeditor.terrablack.com/

I've wanted this planner for some time, and kept putting off getting it. Perhaps one of the most practical purchases a blogger can make, The Editor is ingenious. While I can't purchase, why should I deprive my readers from investing in this life-saving organizational planner? Snatch one up for $25 at http://theeditor.terrablack.com/.

3. A subscription to Nylon

There's nothing like a good read. I've only subscribed to a handful of mags in my time, and Nylon will be next. The way they combine fashion and pop culture in a way that's witty and sometimes urban is just cool. I'd love to work there... <hint hint>.

4. A squirrel monkey

There's a website for everything, and while I think the idea of owning a squirrel monkey is fun, a bit cruel and a little ridiculous, it's obtainable. Proof is in primate - http://www.primatestore.com/forsale.asp.

5.  Hallelu's Must Have Skirt

... Only 27 more days to go....