Book Review: Color for Men

When I graduated college in 1986, I had a very rough time finding a job in Arizona. I took a low paying sales clerk job at Walden Books at Camelview Plaza in Scottsdale. It was a lousy job but I remember picking up this book for a few dollars on clearance. Recently a friend of mine mentioned this book and I thought it would be a good time to write a review. I no longer have my copy but I do remember it clearly as I learned a lot from it.

This is a great beginner's level book and I say that kindly. The author recommends appropriate colors for men based on their skin tone, which she divides into four "seasons." This is a science and it is not subjective. LeDandy isn't fond of the scientific approach in men's fashion but this color coding scheme makes sense and it does work. You probably already know which colors look good on you, but her system explains why.

The book goes well beyond color suggestions and she recommends different styles of clothing based upon one's build. I remember how she divided suit styles into three categories: European, Updated American and Ivy League. For each category she discussed the appropriate physique for that style. If you have no experience with men's fashion, it is an excellent primer as it covers many topics. She even tells you what you need for a basic wardrobe based upon your profession and income.

Will this book turn you into a dandy? No, but I can't think of a better building block for someone who wants to embark on the road of men's fashion with no experience. Even though the book was published twenty years ago, the lessons and advice are still relevant.