The Style Thesaurus: A Definitive, Gender-Neutral Guide to the Meaning of Style and an Essential Wardrobe Companion for All Fashion Lovers

This book by PHOENIX magazine editor in chief Kane (fashion journalism, product management, and marketing, London Coll. of Fashion) is as much a lexicon of fashion terms as it is a style guide. The volume has nine distinctive categories: “Time,” “Utility,” “Subcultures and Countercultures,” “Music and Dance,” “Leisure,” “Conformist,” “Statement,” “Sex and Gender,” and “Dress Codes and Occasions.” Within each chapter are narratives about specific styles, people, and shops relating to the overarching term and its history. For example, in “Conformist,” there are parts about attire that’s preppy, academic, classic, and more. “Sex and Gender” discusses drag, camp, and femme clothing. Some readers might find the “butch” designation offensive, but Kane takes the time to offer details about its historical aspects and places it into contemporary context, just as she does with all the terms. The “Music and Dance” section focuses on grunge, disco, and more, while “Dress Codes and Occasions” shows black-tie, red-carpet, and business attire. The book also features a listing of colors, patterns, fabrics, cuts, and other details.