Just Try It On: A Month-by-Month Guide to Shopping and Style

"This is another book I purchased for my wife and she finds it
very helpful in all areas of putting looks together."
~ Written on 2008-09-23

"I was looking for some books on how to build my wardrobe, and how to put outfits together. This book looked promising but was so disappointing! She begins by saying don't shop at sales, because someone in your town probably already has and will be wearing the same thing. So? She devotes whole chapters to dressing for a wedding, choosing swimsuits, and buying sunglasses. She seems snooty and out of touch with the average woman. She never discussed pulling an outfit together. I liked Budget Fashionista better."
~ Written on 2008-09-22

"I picked this up because I thought it may be a helpful way to learn how to become a more efficient shopper - I tend to be an impulse shopper from time to time and then always have that feeling that I have nothing to wear in my closet! It's a quick read, so you can get the pertinent info before you head out to shop. I found the "chatty" writing style of the book to be a little annoying at times, and the phrase "Just try it on!" that was exclaimed throughout the book to be a little corny (yes, I do realize that's the title), but overall this book has some good fashion tips and suggestions. There is a chapter devoted to each month, with relevant fashion tips for that month, including suggestions on what to buy that month based on the availability of new merchandise in the stores. So you could read through the chapters on a month-by-month basis, rather than doing it all in a few days. It also has some good ideas with respect to choosing handbags and accessories like watches and rings. The only thing that seems to be missing is more information on sales, and when to catch the best sales for the clothing and accessories mentioned. There seemed to be more emphasis on buying items as soon as new shipments hit the stores in order to get the best selection. While that's a good point, many people are also interested in saving money, and in my opinion this book did not seem to offer much practical advice on sales for the average shopper. But overall, a fun read if you are into organizing your closet each season and love shopping for the latest and greatest."
~ Written on 2008-08-31

"I thought this book would be a good purchase after a quick glance through it. I am now about three-quarters of the way through and I have decided I think it is one of the best books on fashion out there, and I have read almost every single one. Redstone seriously knows her stuff. This book will teach you when all the best merchandise hits the stores, and Redstone counsels you on when to spend and when to hold off. For someone who generally is an impulse buyer and needs to control her spending, this book truly helps put together a fashion budget and timeline. There is so much detail in here, from what color sunglasses go with what hair color, to figuring out just how fancy you need to go for an occasion. If you are someone who loves pictures, there are none here for you; however, I highly recommend you make the purchase and read it.

One trick I have already tried this week was the "two bag theory." I selected a smaller purse in which I put my essentials, and fit it inside a larger bag that holds everything else I need for work. It is so much easier and more stylish that carrying 2 bags all the time! "
~ Written on 2008-05-21

"Redstone's objective it to help the reader determine the best time of year to shop for key items. She breaks down the merchandising schedule by month so shoppers know when the latest looks in certain items will hit stores. In addition, Redstone gives great tips on selecting pieces to cultivate one's personal style.

If you're familiar with Tim Gunn, Redstone's catch phrase ("Just Try It On") sounds a bit contrived. But this book is a great complement to Gunn's Guide because Redstone goes in-depth with certain things that Tim Gunn only mentions. For example, Tim Gunn has a chapter about accessories, but Redstone has several, discussing jewelry (including a watch wardrobe), shoes, handbags, sunglasses.

Overall, highly recommended."
~ Written on 2008-04-17