Books about fashion

Collecting Jewellery
Author: John Benjamin

With Collecting Jewellery, John Benjamin offers an indispensable guide for anyone who wants to learn how to identify, appreciate, and collect jewellery. This fully updated edition takes you through the history of jewellery: from antique jewels to contemporary designs. Benjamin combines his years of experience as an appraiser, lecturer, and jewellery historian in a clear and accessible book.

The guide not only covers classic periods but also delves into more modern movements. There are new chapters on the 'Modern Style' of the 1940s and 50s and the 'Designer Jewel' of the 1960s and 70s, extending far beyond the turn of the millennium. From natural and cultivated diamonds to unique one-off pieces and popular fashion jewellery: this book teaches you how to observe, compare, and understand. Ideal for collectors, students, and enthusiasts who want to build their own collection with knowledge and confidence.

What to expect:

• A fully updated classic: from antique to contemporary jewellery
• Clear basic knowledge for collectors, students, and enthusiasts
• Insight and expertise to assemble your own stylish and affordable collection

About the author

John Benjamin is an internationally recognised expert in the field of jewellery. After his role as International Director of Jewellery at Phillips Fine Art Auctioneers, he started his own independent appraisal and advisory practice in 1999. He is a Freeman of both The Goldsmiths’ Company and the City of London and is closely involved with The Worshipful Company of Arts Scholars.

In addition to Collecting Jewellery, he also wrote Starting to Collect Antique Jewellery and collaborated with Paul Atterbury on The Jewellery and Silver of H.G. Murphy. Since 1991, John Benjamin has been a familiar face as an expert on BBC’s Antiques Roadshow. As a sought-after speaker for organisations such as The Arts Society and the National Federation of Women’s Institutes, he consistently conveys his in-depth knowledge in an accessible and inspiring way.

Hermès Philosophy
Author: Mara Cappelletti

A captivating look behind the scenes of the world's most exclusive fashion house.

Hermès Philosophy is the ultimate coffee table book for lovers of fashion, luxury, and entrepreneurship. This richly illustrated work takes you on a visual journey through the history of Hermès, from a humble family business to the embodiment of French elegance and craftsmanship.

With unique archival images, original photographs, vintage advertisements, and never-before-published interviews, this book reveals the core values, iconic collections, and creative techniques that have made Hermès a global status symbol.

Why this book is a must-have:

• Richly illustrated with exclusive images and photography
• Includes original testimonials and previously unpublished interviews
• Illuminating overview of Hermès’ design philosophy and successful communication strategy
• Perfect for fashion, business, and luxury enthusiasts
• A stylish addition to your coffee table or book collection

Learn how Hermès, with a perfect balance between tradition and innovation, managed to build an iconic brand, whose products are designed so powerfully that they speak for themselves. A book full of inspiration, history, and elegance, an absolute must-read for anyone who wants to understand the world of haute couture.

Hermès Philosophy is part of the successful Luxury Philosophy series, and follows the equally acclaimed Rolex Philosophy.

About the author:

Mara Cappelletti is a renowned writer, journalist, and expert in jewelry and luxury fashion. She lectures at universities and academies in Italy, works as a curator of exhibitions, and is the author of numerous books on high-end brands, including Rolex Philosophy. Her keen eye for detail and in-depth research make her books leading reference works in the world of fashion and luxury design.

The Ultimate Guide to Chanel Bags
Author: Alexandra Fullerton

The must-have for every fashion lover: an ode to the iconic Chanel bag

The Ultimate Guide to Chanel Bags is the ultimate coffee table book for anyone who dreams of the elegant world of Chanel. This beautifully illustrated book takes you into the story behind the most legendary bags of the French fashion house, from the timeless 2.55 to the popular Boy Bag and the refined Minaudières.

With stylish photography, fashion history, and fascinating facts, you'll discover how these bags grew into true fashion icons and status symbols. Chanel bags shine on the street, on the red carpet, and in countless films and series. This photo book also offers a behind-the-scenes look at the craftsmanship and cultural impact of these coveted accessories.

Why this book is a must-have:

• A visual tribute to the most famous Chanel models
• An indispensable reference work for fashionistas, collectors, and fashion lovers
• Perfect as a stylish gift or luxurious decoration for your coffee table
• Suitable for both Chanel connoisseurs and newcomers to the world of high fashion
• Combines fashion, history, and design in an accessible and elegant edition

About the author:
Alexandra Fullerton is a leading British fashion journalist and former fashion director of, among others, Stylist and Glamour UK. She has worked with international stars such as Kylie Minogue, Florence Welch, and Sophie Turner. Today, she combines her love for fashion with writing, styling, and her own shopping platform. In The Ultimate Guide to Chanel Bags, she shares her in-depth knowledge and passion for stylish accessories and the heritage of Chanel.

The Ultimate Guide to Chanel Bags
Author: Alexandra Fullerton

The must-have for every fashion lover: an ode to the iconic Chanel bag

The Ultimate Guide to Chanel Bags is the ultimate coffee table book for anyone who dreams of the elegant world of Chanel. This beautifully illustrated book takes you into the story behind the most legendary bags of the French fashion house, from the timeless 2.55 to the popular Boy Bag and the refined Minaudières.

With stylish photography, fashion history, and fascinating facts, you'll discover how these bags grew into true fashion icons and status symbols. Chanel bags shine on the street, on the red carpet, and in countless films and series. This photo book also offers a behind-the-scenes look at the craftsmanship and cultural impact of these coveted accessories.

Why this book is a must-have:

• A visual tribute to the most famous Chanel models
• An indispensable reference work for fashionistas, collectors, and fashion lovers
• Perfect as a stylish gift or luxurious decoration for your coffee table
• Suitable for both Chanel connoisseurs and newcomers to the world of high fashion
• Combines fashion, history, and design in an accessible and elegant edition

About the author:
Alexandra Fullerton is a leading British fashion journalist and former fashion director of, among others, Stylist and Glamour UK. She has worked with international stars such as Kylie Minogue, Florence Welch, and Sophie Turner. Today, she combines her love for fashion with writing, styling, and her own shopping platform. In The Ultimate Guide to Chanel Bags, she shares her in-depth knowledge and passion for stylish accessories and the heritage of Chanel.

The Ultimate Guide to Chanel Bags
Author: Alexandra Fullerton

The must-have for every fashion lover: an ode to the iconic Chanel bag

The Ultimate Guide to Chanel Bags is the ultimate coffee table book for anyone who dreams of the elegant world of Chanel. This beautifully illustrated book takes you into the story behind the most legendary bags of the French fashion house, from the timeless 2.55 to the popular Boy Bag and the refined Minaudières.

With stylish photography, fashion history, and fascinating facts, you'll discover how these bags grew into true fashion icons and status symbols. Chanel bags shine on the street, on the red carpet, and in countless films and series. This photo book also offers a behind-the-scenes look at the craftsmanship and cultural impact of these coveted accessories.

Why this book is a must-have:

• A visual tribute to the most famous Chanel models
• An indispensable reference work for fashionistas, collectors, and fashion lovers
• Perfect as a stylish gift or luxurious decoration for your coffee table
• Suitable for both Chanel connoisseurs and newcomers to the world of high fashion
• Combines fashion, history, and design in an accessible and elegant edition

About the author:
Alexandra Fullerton is a leading British fashion journalist and former fashion director of, among others, Stylist and Glamour UK. She has worked with international stars such as Kylie Minogue, Florence Welch, and Sophie Turner. Today, she combines her love for fashion with writing, styling, and her own shopping platform. In The Ultimate Guide to Chanel Bags, she shares her in-depth knowledge and passion for stylish accessories and the heritage of Chanel.

Warpaint – Male Makeup and Identity Through Time
Authors: gestalten & Joshua Sims

Warpaint – Male Makeup and Identity Through Time is a stimulating and visually powerful coffee table book that reveals the often-underexposed history of male makeup and self-adornment. From ancient rituals and war paint to glam rock, punk, pop icons and contemporary street culture: this book shows how men throughout time used makeup to express identity, power, rebellion and belonging.

Through rich visual selections and sharp cultural analyses, Warpaint explores the male face and body as a canvas for transformation. Makeup proves to be not only an aesthetic choice but also a social, political and psychological statement. At a time when masculinity is being redefined and the market for men's grooming and cosmetics is growing strongly, this photo book offers a timely and in-depth reflection on appearance as both conformity and rebellion.

With historical objects, archive images and contemporary photography, Warpaint connects past and present. The result is an inspiring coffee table book for lovers of fashion, culture, identity, subcultures and social history.

What to expect

• A cultural history of male makeup, from ritual body paint to modern street style
• Images of historical artifacts, archives, and contemporary male makeup and body art
• Insightful essays on power, identity, masculinity, and expression
• A unique perspective on beauty, self-image, and cultural codes

About the authors

gestalten is an internationally renowned publisher from Berlin, founded in 1995. The brand is known for high-quality coffee table books on design, fashion, architecture, art and visual culture. Gestalten collaborates with leading creative thinkers and makers, translating cultural developments into books with a strong visual and substantive impact.

Joshua Sims is a journalist and author specializing in style, design, and subcultures. In his work, he explores the relationship between fashion, identity, and social norms, with a particular focus on masculinity and the social significance of clothing and appearance. He has written extensively on menswear and the evolution of male self-expression and is considered a perceptive commentator on contemporary culture.

Yumi Katsura, The Fairy Godmother of Japanese Fashion

Discover the fascinating story of Yumi Katsura, the visionary designer who transformed modern bridal fashion in Japan. Although she is one of the world's best-selling luxury bridal designers, her name remains a hidden gem for many. In her homeland of Japan, however, she is revered as a cultural icon and pioneer in the fashion industry.

This beautiful coffee table book takes you through Katsura's extraordinary career, from her youth in post-war Tokyo to her impressive international successes. Her creations, including a diamond-encrusted wedding dress and a unique 'washi fashion' dress in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, bear witness to her boundless innovation and craftsmanship.

Author
Written by Cori Coppola, producer of the acclaimed fashion documentary House of Cardin, this richly illustrated biography offers a profound and inspiring portrait of a woman who conquered the fashion world with passion and courage.

Coffee table book Yumi Katsura, The Fairy Godmother of Japanese Fashion is an indispensable photo book for fashion critics, haute couture enthusiasts, and anyone inspired by fashion icons.