I AM a total book fiend and make absolutely no apologies for it.

My dream is to one day have a library in my house that rivals that of the one in ‘Beauty & The Beast’ (can you picture it?!) and although I’ve still got some way to go, with the amount of books I currently own, I’d say I’d definitely on my way to achieving it!

Beautiful, engaging, inspiring and profound books will always have a place in my heart but over the past few years I’ve developed a certain penchant for books that are all about style.

Style books combine two of my most favourite things – reading and pretty things – so I guess it’s understandable why I love them so much.

I own LOTS of them and whenever a new ‘must have’ style book comes on the market, I’m there, waiting and ready to pounce.

Like with everything in life, some books are better than others which is why I’ve carefully whittled them down to present to you my favourite – and oh so stylish – top five.

Enjoy!

Paris Street Style – A Guide To Effortless Chic

By Isabelle Thomas & Frederique Veysset

If like me, you are huge fan of the effortless, pulled together style of our Parisian sisters, then you will absolutely adore this book.

With advice from more than 25 French fashion insiders, this book pays homage to the world renowned Parisian style and shares some cracking pearls of wisdom  as to how we too can look chic, classy and damn right fabulous.

The images are stunning, interviews fascinating and the tips are pretty useful too. And if you think Parisian style is all about labels, think again, for this book even features a special chapter on how to ‘make cheap look classy.’  I mean really, what could be more ‘parfait’ than that?!

The Style Strategy

By Nina Garcia

With impressive credentials that include fashion director of Marie Claire magazine (US) and fashion judge on hit show Project Runway, Nina Garcia is one lady who knows her stuff.

Nina has written a number of style books (another one worth checking out is her ‘What To Wear For Every Occasion Look Book‘) but this is my favourite of the bunch.

Visually the book is a feast to behold. Featuring beautiful illustrations by Ruben Toledo, this book even has a gold metallic cover for goodness sake. How glamorous is that?!

But it’s Nina’s expert advice that really makes this a must have style book. In a nutshell, The Style Strategy is all about shopping smart and staying chic. Instead of spending mega bucks, you’re encouraged to put thought into what you already own, enhance what you’ve got, get creative and be savvy with your spending. Brilliant ey?

If your wardrobe is more of a disaster zone than a stylish haven, then this book will help you to get your groomed, fashionable self back on track.

Kate Moss Style

By Angela Buttolph

Love her or loathe her, there is no disputing the fact that Kate Moss is a mega style icon. And probably one of the greatest of modern times, at that.

From the early days of her modelling career, she has continually pushed style boundaries, kicked off global trends and influenced what we wear and buy from the high street more than any other human being has in recent years.

Whilst much has been made (and continues to be made) of Kate’s personal life, this book is different in that it concentrates on her style and it’s evolution.

Featuring interviews with fashion designers, stylists, photographers and vintage dealers, this book is a fascinating insight into being Kate Moss and the unique style which has made her a worldwide superstar.

The Fashion File (Advice, Tips and Inspiration from the Costume Designer of Mad Men)

By Janie Byrant

Bar Sex & The City, I cannot think of a more stylish TV series to hit our screens in recent years than the brilliant Mad Men.

Whilst men can only dream of being as suave and handsome as Donald Drapper, us women tend to long to be as sexy and sassy as Joan Holloway or as cool and elegant as Betty.  So who better to inspire us about our own personal style than the lady behind these incredible looks, the stylist of the show herself, Janie Byrant.

After buying this book on a bit of a ‘I need a new book’ whim, I have to say I was pleasantly surprised with how brilliant this style book actually is.

It is jam packed with incredible style advice, covering everything from how to choose the correct underwear to how to do the perfect smokey eye. And whilst the book does make frequent references to the show, if you’re not a fan or have never seen it, fear not, you can still enjoy it just as much.

When you’re done with it, I urge you to pass it on to your husband or boyfriend too because this book isn’t  just for us ladies. Oh no no no! Janie has even written a chapter especially for the men. Bravo Janie. Bravo!

I Love Your Style

By Amanda Brooks

If you’re completely content with your style but could just do with a little inspiration to help you refine it, then this is the book for you.

Crammed with hundreds of inspiring images to introduce you to the realms of all fashion and style possibilities, this is a serious style book for serious fashionistas.

Not many basic style tips here, but tons of advice on how to improve your look and take things up a notch.

And let’s face it, who couldn’t do with a bit of a style shake up from time to time?!

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What do you think of style books? Do you love them as much as I do? Have you a favourite? Are there any that I haven’t yet found (please say yes!). As always I would love, love, love to hear what you’ve got to say.

Till the next time, when in doubt, pick up a book!

Katie