My Fashion Life

Upon first glance of the title, “Wife Dressing: The Fine Art of Being a Well-Dressed Wife”, which was first penned in 1959 by model and designer, Anne Fogarty, I instantly thought that this recently re-released “how-to” book would be outdated or even degrading for on-the-go, modern day women like ourselves.

I mean, we’ve come a long way from the days when career women were the new breed, and when wearing petticoats, pearls and white gloves at home on a Sunday afternoon were the standard.

However after reading…I was pleasantly surprised to find an amusing and helpful book with many relevant and timeless tips on how to be a well-dressed woman, no matter the era. No one will disagree that dressing properly for certain occasions, shopping smartly, and knowing what styles work on our bodies, are things that every woman should know.

Here are some of the more memorable quotes from the book:

On Spending:

“Taste and money should not be regarded as separate entities, nor will emphasis on one necessarily assure the benefits of the other. Taste well expressed means money well spent. And vice versa.”

On perfumes:

“Aroma is supposed to drift in on those around you like a morning haze, not be a knock on the head. Scent is subtlety, not a sledge hammer.”

On totes:

“I think of my oversized pouch as a kind of conjurer’s bag full of magical tricks that help me preserve my appearance and change it at will.”

On trends:

“Courage and discretion go hand in hand; the courage to dare to be yourself, the discretion not to overdo…”

Even though “Wife Dressing” isn’t exactly a book to show off to our male counterparts (for obvious reasons), it’s definitely a go-to guide to keep on the bedside table or to share with newly married girlfriends as a cute, tongue-in-cheek gift.

After all, a ring on the finger isn’t a free pass to live in baggy sweats and ratty t-shirts….well, at least not all the time!