<< 1 >>
Rating: 
Summary: wanted to like this more
Review: I think that if I had read this book ten years ago, I would have given it a higher rating; I really did enjoy her positive, up-beat take on size acceptance, and she was very honest about how difficult it can be.However, to be truly honest, I simply could not enjoy the clothes! At 27 years old, I don't want to look like an explosion at a crayon factory. I love that Rita Farro wears just what she likes best, but I myself would rather look stylish and sophisticated instead of clownish. Again, this is my very own personal preference - I applaud Rita for following her vision, it's just not mine. 5 stars for the message, 1 star for the clothes.
Rating:
Summary: Not as good as hoped
Review: I was hoping for some great stuff. There was some stuff, some tips for pattern fixing and accessory-modifying. But not much about what works and what doesn't. It is heavily geared toward women who DON'T work in a heavily tailored environment (i.e. suits). It wasn't the colour emphasis (which was good) but the lack of styles in that area. I was fairly frustrated when I finished the book.
Rating: 
Summary: Delightful, positive, and very useful
Review: It was such a pleasure to read a book (aimed at the "gifted") which shows a delightful awareness that fashion should be fun and reflect individual style. Unlike other books aimed at this market, this one is neither a dreary "self-help" approach nor an appeal to look "professional" (which, especially in NYC, generally means "dowdy.") This book should be on the shelf of everyone who enjoys both sewing and individuality in fashion, not only those who are plus sized. Rita's humour makes the reading marvellously original - her style gives a sense of sheer (or, perhaps, "shear") enjoyment. I especially liked her emphasis on colour and adapting patterns. For some, Rita's taste may seem a bit over the top (even I, who have rather bold tastes, would find the "carwash skirt" a little much), but her ideas can be adapted to the reader's personal style. For example, the "suit types" can use Rita's swing coat in any fabric, over a simple dress, and both have an "office look" and avoid the skirt-and-blouse cutoff point that is unflattering to most large women. Rita, most refreshingly, does not offer stock "self-help" talk, nor does she explore the current trends towards relating size to "issues" or "self-esteem." This is pure fashion, where building on one's own style and tastes makes for a wonderful look.
Rating:
Summary: Delightful, positive, and very useful
Review: It was such a pleasure to read a book (aimed at the "gifted") which shows a delightful awareness that fashion should be fun and reflect individual style. Unlike other books aimed at this market, this one is neither a dreary "self-help" approach nor an appeal to look "professional" (which, especially in NYC, generally means "dowdy.") This book should be on the shelf of everyone who enjoys both sewing and individuality in fashion, not only those who are plus sized. Rita's humour makes the reading marvellously original - her style gives a sense of sheer (or, perhaps, "shear") enjoyment. I especially liked her emphasis on colour and adapting patterns. For some, Rita's taste may seem a bit over the top (even I, who have rather bold tastes, would find the "carwash skirt" a little much), but her ideas can be adapted to the reader's personal style. For example, the "suit types" can use Rita's swing coat in any fabric, over a simple dress, and both have an "office look" and avoid the skirt-and-blouse cutoff point that is unflattering to most large women. Rita, most refreshingly, does not offer stock "self-help" talk, nor does she explore the current trends towards relating size to "issues" or "self-esteem." This is pure fashion, where building on one's own style and tastes makes for a wonderful look.
Rating:
Summary: Getting Over Being "Gifted"...
Review: Rita Farro worked with what she affectionately calls "gifted" women (or women any size over 10) for over a decade; first as a fabric store owner, then as a workshop presenter. The knowledge behind Life is Not a Dress Size also comes from her personal experience at being gifted herself.
This book is about living in "a country that worships thinness", "developing personal style" and "learning to value yourself". A tall order for this little book. It also boasts a bonus sewing section with a few basic items like a wrap, scarf, belts. It's about working with what you have.
Despite being almost ten years from its original publishing date, everything still applies (except the overstated eye clashing outfits...and stirrup pants). She delivers her story and thoughts from the perspective of an old friend instead of someone with a PhD who's never been 20lbs overweight in her life. The tone is conversational, honest and straight forward. Behind each opinion she offers legitimate commentary to back it up. She delves into the realms of low self esteem, fashion, style, sewing and being happy. She gently reminds we all have value.
We are our own worst enemies. Farro insists our segregation from society is less to do with the food we eat and more to do with how we dress and carry ourselves in public. Because of Farro's personal voice/style this is an easy and quick read that leaves the reader refreshed instead of in a depressed afterglow. A large majority of the book is about first impressions, body types and how to camouflage them.
She briefly touches on the fat stereotypes like, "She's fat, she must be lazy". Farro says we need to spend more time on our hygiene, clothing, make up and hair. That means no more running out to the corner store without a bra and the inner thigh material eaten out of your pants. Farro also strongly believes we should let go to the fantasy we are going to lose some weight. It's important to live in the moment and wear clothing that fits us now.
She lightly mentions the diet industry but weight loss isn't a focal point in Life is Not a Dress Size. Despite the occasional bad cliché it's entertaining, easy to read, understandable, and educational. The few quizzes are simple and non-threatening. The glossy pages and short chapters make it durable and easy to use as a resource.
Review Originally Posted at http://largeandlovely.bellaonline.com
Rating:
Summary: The best book I've seen on style
Review: Rita's delightful approach, which truly deals with personal style, is absolutely refreshing. An added bonus for larger ladies is that Rita (unlike most authors who target our market)does not "buy into" the "fat is a sign of other issues" nonsense. Rita knows that fashion is fun, and seems to be enjoying herself immensely (no pun intended). This is one book that every plus-sized lady should read and enjoy!
Rating:
Summary: Fantastic, inspiring book!!!!!!!!
Review: This is not a book about changing what you are but changing who you are. Through a series of exercies Rita takes you to the point where you discover the part of your body you hate least and how to work from there to a personal style. Her style is a little wild for me but her basic concepts are applicable to everyone in every life situation. Get this book - it just might change your life.
Rating:
Summary: Every plus size woman should read this book!
Review: Whether you sew or not, Rita Farro's book is for all women of size. She uses wit, warmth and a large dose of common sense to get the message across that large women are just as entitled to be happy and productive as anyone else and those "fataphobics" who have a problem with us plus size gals...well, it's THEIR problem. All we can do, she says, is change ourselves for the better. We CAN be happy. And she's right. I spent years sitting at home feeling terrible about myself but after reading Rita's book, I started taking control of my life and in small steps, try to be better every day. I can't recommend this book too highly. I just wish Rita would hurry up and write another book!
<< 1 >>
|
