101 Glam Girl Ways to an Ultra Chic Lifestyle

Review

Dawn Del Russo’s 101 Glam Girl Ways to an Ultra Chic Lifestyle makes for an incredibly light, fun read perfect for a quick flash of inspiration or a nice addition to a gift basket. It’s entirely possible to browse all 101 snippets of advice in under an hour, but the book warrants several returns. Every last tip comes paired with an appropriate illustration by the talented Barbara Ann Scarrillo. She sports a very flowing, airy style with muted pastels and thin, swirling line work that complements the overall traditionally feminine tone of the book. While the ideas contained therein are useful, I think the artwork really solidifies Del Russo’s writings and makes this a very thoughtful present for a favorite girly-girl.

Del Russo’s points revolve mostly around fashion, lifestyle, health, and personal enrichment. Most of them I can get behind – especially “wear what you love” (11) – though I disagree with knockoff designer merchandise always being “oh so obvious and tacky” (17). Sometimes that’s all people can afford, and it’s better they spring for a bootleg rather than break the bank trying to look chic. All in all, though, I think any ladies with an interest in fashion and healthy, happy living ought to give the book a peek. It makes for a lightning-fast resource on days when ideas for outfits, activities, and pick-me-ups begin to run dry, as readers can flip through the pages quickly and land on something they may find useful.

Bibliographic Information

Del Russo, Dawn, and Barbara Ann Scarrillo. 101 Glam Girl Ways to an Ultra Chic Lifestyle. Charleston, S.C.: BookSurge, 2009.

Further Reading

I only ever really got into fashion over the past year, so I have yet to blend it into my love of reading and literary criticism. However, I think those who enjoy the spirit and structure of 101 Glam Girl Ways to an Ultra Chic Lifestyle will also likely enjoy Barbara Ann Kipfer’s 14,000 Things to be Happy About. Both are quick to skim when days feel glum and uninspired, though Kipfer’s book obviously targets a broader audience than Del Russo’s.