12 Books Every Fashion Lover Should Read

Updated: Apr 14, 2023

Author

Carrie Thornbrugh

“I didn't think of the mini as sexual but as an instrument of liberation. I wanted to make clothes that you could move in, skirts you could run and dance in, but, of course, wearing clothes like that made you feel and look sexy. “ –Mary Quant

We were saddened to hear of yesterday’s passing of Fashion icon Mary Quant (February 11, 1930 – April 13, 2023) at the age of 93. The news of her death inspired us to put together this ultimate list of recommended Fashion history books, including Quant’s autobiography, a fascinating read about the Swinging Sixties of London and her groundbreaking journey as the mother of the revolutionary miniskirt, at a time when women were meant to dress like their mothers. In her own words, Quant affirmed that she “didn’t have time to wait for women’s lib.” She wanted “relaxed clothes suited to the actions of normal life.” Quant said she started designing miniskirts so that she could “run and catch the bus to get to work,” and hoped to channel “that feeling of freedom and liberation.” As many Fashion experts and scholars would attest, she did just that throughout her innovative career, establishing the miniskirt as a veritable right of passage and agency for many women.

Fashion is an ever-evolving industry that has captivated the world for centuries. From haute couture to streetwear, fashion has always been a reflection of our society's values, ideals, and aspirations. The featured Fashion books below offer a glimpse into the industry's rich history, its legendary figures, and the creative process that goes into creating iconic designs. Read on for a curated list of some of the best fashion books that every fashion lover should have in their collection.

bookcover image of Quant by Quant autobiography from V&A Publishing

Hits from the V&A Fashion Perspective Series:

image of a typed memo from Diana Vreeland during her time at Conde Nast

Office Memo to Mrs. Blackmon regarding “April 1 Travel Issue,” February 17, 1967. © Grace Mirabella

1950s & 1960s:

Kwame Brathwaite: Black Is Beautiful by Tanisha C. Ford, Deborah Willis, Kwame Brathwaite (Photographer).
The Little Dictionary of Fashion by Christian Dior.
Diana Vreeland: Bon Mots: Words of Wisdom From the Empress of Fashion by Alexander Vreeland and Luke Edward Hall (Illustrator).
D.V. by Dianna Vreeland.

bookcover image of Supreme Models

1970s & 1980s:

The Battle of Versailles: The Night American Fashion Stumbled into the Spotlight and Made History by Robin Givhan.
The House of Gucci: A True Story of Murder, Madness, Glamour, and Greed by Sara Gay Forden.
Supreme Models: Iconic Black Women Who Revolutionized Fashion by Marcellas Reynolds.

1990s-2020s:

Champagne Supernovas: Kate Moss, Marc Jacobs, Alexander McQueen, and the '90s Renegades Who Remade Fashion by Maureen Callahan.
The End of Fashion: How Marketing Changed the Clothing Business Forever by Teri Agins.
Token Black Girl: A Memoir by Danielle Prescod.

Whether you're a seasoned fashionista or a curious newcomer to the industry, these books offer insights, inspiration, and a deep appreciation for the art and craft of fashion. For a deeper dive, consider joining one of these fashion-forward public book clubs ( Obsessed Book Club, Ladies Level Up, Lemon-Love Book Club ) or create your own! For your first book club meeting, you can host a miniskirt party in homage to the late, great, Mary Quant.

bookcover image of Mary Quant's autobiography

For more reading inspo, learn How Book Clubs Pick Their Books and check out our Book Club Reading Lists below:

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