The Fashion Resource Book: Research for Design

Described as a resource book, this is a rather modest volume in itself for that purpose; certainly, it has lots of photographs, some useful one-page case-studies and observations from names in the industry, together with some helpful and interesting illustrations.Rather, its true function seems to be to serve as a guide to sourcing ideas, listing what areas of exploration provide the most lucrative inspiration and how to best apply those resources when you find them; in this respect, the book does quite a clear and comprehensive job.Much of the advice proffered would apply to any visual artist/designer regardless of your chosen field or discipline and it is certainly an interesting and informative book on its specific subject; it would, however be of most use to the prospective student at the stage of preparing a portfolio of work for a fashion course, or perhaps already in fashion-related study with the intention of applying for a full-blown degree course. The research process laid out here would be routine practice for any second-year degree course student, but it would be helpful - regardless of experience - to have this as a working handbook.I was impressed by the very sound advice not to rely heavily on internet research or photography - though they have their place - but to seek out original items that can be studied in the round; a valid point for anyone who works in visual/functional design - a few moments of examining any crafted article will reveal more about its construction than most photographic images could.Fashion isn't my field, but I know many people who have been trained in or are involved with the industry; this seems like a pretty useful primer for both the student and the interested observer of fashion, as such I consider it quite a recommendable book.