So what makes this book different? For one, this book doesn't tell you what to wear or style yourself which is refreshing. Instead, the book is broken down into six style types (classic, bohemian, minimal, high fashion, street, and eclectic) that could easily be mixed and matched to one's own tastes. Within each of these grouping Brooks discusses clothing, accessories, icons, and modern interpretations of each style which is very practical. Each chapter is full of lots of pictures to serve as inspiration which is something I always find useful (hence all my inspiration photo posts!).
Brooks then follows those chapters with an extensive guide on shopping that ranges from high end designer shops to fast fashion chains like H&M and Zara to consignment shops. The advice is practical and definitely doesn't suggest that only those who can afford expensive clothes can have great personal style. Even more appealing is that the book serves as a great start for creating your own inspiration board for your own style, featuring lots of pictures from past and present as points of references. Brooks even expounds on those themes more by including films and books that also reflect that type of style. These points of reference will definitely serve as great jumping off points.
As a whole, I liked that the book was straightforward, provides essential and useful information, and encourages the reader to develop their own style organically rather than being a slave to trends or rules. I also appreciated that Brooks didn't discount other types of personal style over others which tends to happen when one style is more trendy than another. I could see some people liking something with a bit more guidance on how to dress their body type, but for a book on personal style I think it does a great job in combining the practical with the artistic.
Here's a quick video featuring Amanda Brooks summarizing her style philosophy: