What are the best resources to learn about fashion? Jump into my childhood adventures and find out!

Like any dutiful ten year old, I walked my mom to the front door and wished her luck on her great, grocery shopping adventure. Feeling partially like the Queen waving farewell to royal guests, and partially like a scheming villain, I waved goodbye and watched her drive away from the living room window. Her car disappeared behind a patch of trees.

Go!

I twirled from the window and bounded upstairs. One hour and thirty minutes before she returned. I skipped down the hall, slipped into my parents room, and headed for my mom’s closet. One hour and thirty minutes of dress up. Upon entering my mom’s closet, I let out a sigh. While I was attracted to the clothing itself, my mom’s ability to organize her closet like a museum never failed to impress me. Sweaters were color coded and contrasted with silks. Purses were displayed and shoes were angled to draw attention to detailing.

Thanks to my mom’s organizational skills (and my two brother’s incredible eating habits that made it necessary for her to visit the grocery store constantly,) I fell in love with the display, design, and the construction of clothing. Thanks to my mom’s closet, I now study fashion merchandising.

Best Resources to Learn About Fashion

Fashion in the Real World

My first university class in fashion shocked me. I realized that 1) I knew far less than I realized about the world of fashion and 2) the fashion industry changes faster than almost any other industry.

Yet, there is an abundance of information. From fashion history, seasonal trends, corporate business deals, and emerging designers, learning about the fashion world can be overwhelming. So where do you start?

Allow me to share with you my current top three things to read and top three things to watch.

What to Read

This is the fashion trade journal. If there is anything worth knowing, it will be here. Stay up to date on the business of fashion, fashion shows, fashion trends, and everything in between.

This was my “Introduction to Fashion” textbook. But don’t worry–it doesn’t read like one. It is perfect for absolute beginners, but also is an excellent review for those familiar with the industry.

While the book focuses specifically on the Royals, it is a fascinating read that emphasizes the cultural importance and incredible power fashion possess.

Best Resources to Learn About Fashion

What to Watch

If you love the suspense of Food Network’s “Chopped,” you will love this show. This show helped me understand how fashion designers and critics think, the process of construction, and the intensity of the industry. (Warning: I suggested this show to a friend. They finished it in 24 hours.) This is by far one of the most entertaining resources to learn about fashion!

This documentary provides a front row seat as Anna Wintour and Vogue prepare for the Vogue September issue. Absolutely fascinating, engaging, and provides insight on a normal day in the industry.

Justine Leconte is a French YouTuber with an abundance of knowledge. Are you wondering what perfume you should wear? What colors match your skin tone? How to spot a poorly constructed garment? She’s got you.

Best Resources to Learn About Fashion

What do you think the best resources to learn about fashion are? Let me know!

PS. If you have not read “The Little Dictionary of Fashion” by Dior… start there. It’s a must. Think of it as a right of passage into the fashion industry.