Island Beauty Book

This book is all about convincing you to want to dress in a flattering, tasteful manner -- and then offering suggestions about how to do so, based on how you deviate from that ideal. (The book actually goes so far as to make assumptions about your mental state based on your outfit -- then offers "Life tips" to help you overcome the depression / low self-esteem / workaholism they've diagnosed in you.)

As I already aspire to dress in a flattering, tasteful manner, I found this book a bit like overhearing someone else's therapy session. I don't think I'm part the intended audience of this self-help book at this particular point in my life. I am doubtful whether I have ever actually assembled an outfit that would pass muster with Trinny and Susannah, but I do accept that presentation can be important and that (the right) clothing can be fun and empowering.

So, if someone were indeed in need of convincing, would she happen to wander on over to the fashion section of the library / bookstore and pick up this book? I think not. This book is probably most useful as a gift, then -- just hope that you're inspiring rather than insulting the loved one you're hoping to reform!