Best Style & Clothing Books of 2026

The Other Side of the Coin is a book that offers readers a rare glimpse into the life of Queen Elizabeth II. Written by Angela Kelly LVO, the Queen's trusted confidant and Dresser, the book features never-before-seen photographs of the monarch, her wardrobe, and jewels, along with intimate anecdotes from Kelly's 25-year career working closely with Her Majesty. The book provides memorable insights into what it's like to work for the Queen and showcases how her clothing has created a powerful visual identity that transcends fashion. This lavishly designed book is a unique keepsake and collector's item that will be treasured by anyone interested in the British monarchy and fashion history.

In Vogue: An Illustrated History of the World's Most Famous Fashion Magazine is a comprehensive guide to the evolution of the iconic publication. The book explores the past, present, and future of Vogue with hundreds of illustrations, including covers and archival interiors. The authors, Alberto Oliva and Norberto Angeletti, have done a fantastic job of chronicling the magazine’s journey from its inception as a society journal to its current status as a global fashion authority. With contributions from world-renowned writers, photographers, and editors, this book is a must-read for anyone interested in the intersection of fashion, culture, and media.

The Kaufmann Mercantile Guide is a comprehensive field guide to life, sharing 48 helpful life skills from frying an egg to shucking an oyster. The book is perfect for those who want to live a slow and thoughtful life, or as a gift for someone who does. It is organized into five instructional sections, with original artwork to visually guide the readers through each step. The guidebook also features supplemental sidebars highlighting the best tool for the job, making it an everyday, accessible reference book for the utilitarian in all of us. Overall, this book is a well-considered collection of how-to’s that perfectly embodies Kaufmann Mercantile’s philosophy of functionality, quality, and craftsmanship.

The Fashion, New Edition: The Definitive Visual Guide is an extensive catalog of the history of fashion, from ancient times to the present day, with a focus on how every generation has reinvented fashion. The book includes beautiful images of classic pieces, profiles of key designers, and a discussion of how Western fashion has been influenced by design from around the world. The new edition covers recent subjects of interest like social media, fast fashion, sustainable fashion, and diversity. The book is a must-have for fashion students and fashion enthusiasts. Overall, it is a visually stunning and informative guide to the evolution of fashion.

100 Ways to be That Girl is a personal transformation self-help book that teaches readers how to become unforgettable, confident, and unshakeable by harnessing the power of their inner "that girl." The book promises to help readers cultivate their that girl persona and create their dream life, regardless of age or body size. With practical tips and inspiration, this book encourages readers to become the leading lady in their own movie. Overall, this book is a fun and easy read that offers actionable advice for anyone looking to improve their confidence and live their best life.

Black Ivy: A Revolt in Style is a remarkable book that explores how Black culture reinvented and subverted the Ivy Look. It features famous and not so famous figures in Black culture, such as Amiri Baraka, Malcolm X, and James Baldwin, and shows how they redefined the dominant looks of the time. Through the lenses of some of America's finest photographers and image-makers, this book celebrates how great style always wins, regardless of the odds. Overall, this book is a must-have for anyone interested in fashion history and the influence of Black culture on American style.

Milady Standard Esthetics Fundamentals, 11th edition, is a must-have for anyone looking to start a career in esthetics. This comprehensive guide covers everything from the history and opportunities in skin care to the practical skills of a skin care professional. The book provides a strong foundation for students to build their knowledge and skills, making it an essential resource for instructors as well. The Premier Source for Education Resources in Cosmetology, Esthetics, Barbering, Nail Technology, Makeup, Massage Therapy, Salon & Spa Management and Business Training has once again delivered a top-notch educational tool.

Dressing the Man: Mastering the Art of Permanent Fashion by Alan Flusser is a comprehensive guide that helps men dress well and look stylish without becoming fashion victims. Flusser emphasizes the importance of proportion and color, and how to personalize these elements for each individual's physical traits. The book covers various dressing options, from casual to formalwear, and includes vintage photographs of stylishly dressed men. Overall, Dressing the Man is a must-read for any man who wants to develop an enduring style of dress that is tailored to his physique and complexion.

Color Your Style by David Zyla is a must-read book for any woman who wants to unlock her authentic style. Zyla, an Emmy Award-winning costume designer, shows how women can discover their true colors and style archetype based on their personality. With quizzes, charts, and stories, women can learn about the colors, clothes, and accessories that will attract love, power, energy, and attention. Color Your Style is not just about fashion, but about self-discovery and feeling confident. Overall, this book is a great guide for women who want to be their best selves without being slaves to designer labels or the latest trends.

The Making Faces book by Kevin Aucoin is a classic and stunning bestseller that offers makeup application and technique basics, along with creating diverse looks. The author has worked with various celebrities, and his client roster includes big names like Cindy Crawford, Elizabeth Hurley, and Whitney Houston. The book is an excellent choice for anyone who wants to learn about makeup and experiment with different looks. Overall, Making Faces is an informative and visually appealing book that can add value to any portrait photography book collection.