Best Fashion Design Books of 2025

Wilson Cook Avatar
Wilson Cook
Last Updated: Apr 24, 2023

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Fashion design books are an essential tool for anyone interested in the fashion industry. These books provide insight into the creative and technical aspects of fashion design, including pattern-making, garment construction, and fashion illustration. They also offer a wealth of inspiration for designers looking to develop their own unique style. From classic fashion designers to contemporary trendsetters, there is a wide range of fashion design books available to suit every taste and skill level. Whether you are a student, professional designer, or simply someone with a passion for fashion, these books are a must-have addition to your library.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Chanel: Collections and Creations Cover #TOP 2
Chanel: Collections and Creations
ftb score rating icon 9.7
Louis Vuitton: The Birth of Modern Luxury Updated Edition Cover #TOP 3
Louis Vuitton: The Birth of Modern Luxury Updated Edition
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Fashion Design Books

Ford, Tom
Foley, Bridget
Carter, Graydon
Wintour, Anna
Rizzoli
Nov 4, 2008

This book is a complete catalogue of Tom Ford's design work for both Gucci and Yves Saint Laurent from 1994 to 2004. It features more than 200 photographs by renowned photographers and explores Ford's grand vision for the complete design of a brand, including architecture, store design, and advertising. Published to coincide with his departure from Gucci, this book has been created with Ford's full cooperation, and every page reflects his exceptional taste. The book covers each of the Gucci years individually, compiling product shots, ads, runway candids, snippets of Ford wisdom, Gucci-sporting celebrities, and commercial stills. Tom Ford is a must-read for fashion enthusiasts and anyone interested in the history of fashion brands.

Chanel: Collections and Creations

Daniele Bott
Thames & Hudson
Apr 24, 2023
Chanel: Collections and Creations Cover
Chanel: Collections and Creations

Chanel: Collections and Creations is a visual journey through the history of the iconic fashion house. The book delves into the private archives of Chanel, showcasing the brand's signature designs from the past and how they have been reinvented by modern fashion designers. With previously unpublished archive photographs and original drawings by Karl Lagerfeld, the book is a stunning tribute to the lasting fame of the brand. Daniele Bott's expertise in fashion and beauty journalism shines through in this beautifully crafted book. It is a must-read for anyone interested in fashion history.

Louis Vuitton: The Birth of Modern Luxury Updated Edition

Louis Vuitton
Abrams
Dec 1, 2012
Louis Vuitton: The Birth of Modern Luxury Updated Edition Cover
Louis Vuitton: The Birth of Modern Luxury Updated Edition

Louis Vuitton: The Birth of Modern Luxury Updated Edition is a comprehensive book that delves into the history of the iconic luxury brand. With access to the company's archives, the book showcases the passion for fine design that Louis Vuitton is known for, featuring a stunning array of archival art, product designs, and advertising. The book covers the lives of the brand's first three leaders, and the updated edition includes new information on ready-to-wear clothing, shoes, jewelry, and even automobiles. Written by Paul-Grard Pasols and edited by Pierre Lonforte, this book is a must-read for fashion history enthusiasts.

#TOP 4

The Kingdom of Prep: The Inside Story of the Rise and (Near) Fall of J.Crew

Bullock, Maggie
Mar 7, 2023
The Kingdom of Prep: The Inside Story of the Rise and (Near) Fall of J.Crew Cover
The Kingdom of Prep: The Inside Story of the Rise and (Near) Fall of J.Crew

The Kingdom of Prep is a fascinating fashion narrative that delves into the rise and (near) fall of J.Crew, the first lifestyle brand. Maggie Bullock's book brings to life the colorful characters behind the brand, from founder Arthur Cinader to ex-Gap CEO Mickey Drexler and designer Jenna Lyons. Bullock charts J.Crew's origin story, its Obama-era heyday and its decline through the stories of the mercurial characters who helmed the company. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in the fashion industry and the shifting landscape of the retail industry.

Little Book of Louis Vuitton: The Story of the Iconic Fashion House (Little Books of Fashion, 9)

Homer, Karen
Sep 7, 2021
Little Book of Louis Vuitton: The Story of the Iconic Fashion House (Little Books of Fashion, 9) Cover
Little Book of Louis Vuitton: The Story of the Iconic Fashion House (Little Books of Fashion, 9)

The Little Book of Louis Vuitton is a fascinating read for anyone interested in the history of this iconic fashion house. Karen Homer expertly chronicles the brand's evolution, from its humble beginnings in Paris to its global expansion and transformation into a high-fashion label. The book is fully illustrated, with captivating images that bring the story to life. The author's attention to detail and extensive research make this book a must-read for fashion history enthusiasts. Overall, The Little Book of Louis Vuitton is a well-written and informative guide to one of the world's most luxurious brands.

The Little Book of Chanel (Little Books of Fashion, 3)

Baxter-Wright, Emma
Welbeck Publishing
Feb 5, 2013
The Little Book of Chanel (Little Books of Fashion, 3) Cover
The Little Book of Chanel (Little Books of Fashion, 3)

The Little Book of Chanel (Little Books of Fashion, 3) is a monograph that explores the life and work of one of the most iconic fashion designers of all time, Coco Chanel. From her early beginnings in millinery to her groundbreaking contributions to women's sportswear, the book offers a detailed account of her evolution and the lasting impact of her creations. The book is beautifully illustrated with photographs, sketches, and catwalk shots, making it a must-have for any fashion enthusiast. Overall, this book is an excellent addition to any fashion history collection.

Ford, Tom
Foley, Bridget
Nov 16, 2021

A visual ode to the iconic American designer Tom Ford's eponymous brand, Tom Ford 002 is a stunning slipcased volume that takes readers through the trajectory of his billion-dollar luxury empire. The book covers everything from cosmetics and eyewear to menswear and his critically acclaimed womenswear line. Printed with Forest Stewardship Council approved materials and edited by Ford personally, this volume is a true collector's item for his devotees and connoisseurs of fashion, style, and design.

A Man & His Watch: Iconic Watches and Stories from the Men Who Wore Them

Hranek, Matt
Artisan
Oct 31, 2017
A Man & His Watch: Iconic Watches and Stories from the Men Who Wore Them Cover
A Man & His Watch: Iconic Watches and Stories from the Men Who Wore Them

A Man & His Watch: Iconic Watches and Stories from the Men Who Wore Them is a beautifully illustrated book that tells the stories of 76 watches, capturing their historical moments, pioneering achievements, family mementos, gifts of affection, and lifelong friendships. The author, Matthew Hranek, a watch collector and NYC men's style fixture, has conducted firsthand interviews and dived into exclusive collections to gather never-before-told stories of these watches. The book is a must-read for watch enthusiasts and anyone who appreciates the sentimental value of timepieces.

Giannini, Frida
Grand, Katie
Arnell, Peter
Jebreal, Rula
Breward, Christopher
Rizzoli
Nov 1, 2011
GUCCI: The Making Of Cover
GUCCI: The Making Of

GUCCI: The Making Of is a 384-page comprehensive fashion history book published in conjunction with the opening of the new Gucci Museum in Florence. Edited by Gucci Creative Director Frida Giannini, the book showcases the genius of the fashion house through previously unpublished contemporary and archival photographs, thought-provoking essays and authoritative anecdotes. The book offers an in-depth look into Gucci's origins, identity, influence, and innovation, including fabrication methods and appropriation of signature materials, past and present, and its influence among high society and Hollywood. Overall, this book is a must-read for anyone with a love of fashion and an interest in contemporary culture, and it is a heartfelt and personalized tribute to the heritage and influence of this iconic, multifaceted brand.

The Little Book of Hermès: The Story of the Iconic Fashion House (Little Books of Fashion, 14)

Homer, Karen
Jul 19, 2022
The Little Book of Hermès: The Story of the Iconic Fashion House (Little Books of Fashion, 14) Cover
The Little Book of Hermès: The Story of the Iconic Fashion House (Little Books of Fashion, 14)

The Little Book of Hermès is a must-read for fashion history enthusiasts. This book showcases the iconic fashion house's evolution through stunning illustrations and authoritative text by fashion historian Karen Homer. The author's expertise in the fashion industry is evident in her well-researched and informative writing. The book also includes insights into the most coveted items of the brand. Overall, The Little Book of Hermès is a delightful addition to any fashion lover's library.

Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I teach myself fashion design?

Teach yourself the basics. Learning the basics of fashion design and construction—drawing, sewing, and pattern-making—is another crucial way to prepare yourself for an education in fashion design.

2. Which study is best for fashion designer?

A. In order to become a fashion designer one should consider pursuing a bachelor's degree in design. Some popular courses that candidates can pursue in design to become a fashion designer are – BDes, BFTech, BSc in Fashion Design, Fashion Merchandising, etc.

Editor's Notes

During our fashion design book research, we found 1,200+ fashion design book products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 74,507 customer reviews through our big data system to write the fashion design books list. We found that most customers choose fashion design books with an average price of $17.39.

Written by
Wilson Cook Avatar

Wilson Cook is a talented writer who has an MFA in creative writing from Williams College and has published more than 50 books acquired by hundreds of thousands of people from various countries by now. He is an inveterate reading lover as he has read a vast amount of books since childhood.