Put on your goggles, we'll go for a ride!

In the panoply of mixed-media art books which make their daily arrival to bookshop shelves around the world, Steampunk Style Jewelry by Jean Campbell stands out as a fantastic, darkly glittering, slightly encrusted gem.

Though the main function of Steampunk Style Jewelry is to provide detailed step-by-step instructions for re-creating (or re-interpreting) 20 "Victorian, fantasy, and mechanical necklaces, bracelets, and earrings", (I'm just mad for the Minerva's Folly Cuff) and Ms. Campbell and her artist/designers do that with extraordinary exactitude, the book is equally striking as a wonderfully comprehensive guidebook to the entire world of Steampunk style from the general "community" to the specific - gear (my husband picked the Wrist-fired Gatling Gun and Lord Cockswain's Blunderbuss as two faves) and clothing. There is a plenitude of historical context, and even an innovative discussion of Steampunk's green, environmental bent!

The author enlisted the aid of author Paul Di Filippo (The Steampunk Trilogy) in an illuminating forward, and includes among her designers Margot Potter, Barbe Saint John, Andrew Thornton, and Jean Yates. The eight gallery pages are just one more element that makes Steampunk Style Jewelry worth every penny.

Find a direct link to get to this book on Amazon on my sidebar, over to the right, and down just a tad...

Portrait of the Artist, in her studio, reviewing

Now, just imagine I'm sitting right here in front of you, going on about the swell book I just read:

Fabulous photos, interesting interviews, intelligent info...style, naturally is an excellent source/guidebook for anyone looking to green their personal style. The 50+ page index of resources --- web addys, street addys, and phone #s for manufacturers, shops, and nonprofits worldwide makes it worth the price alone; the rest makes it feel like you just got your hands on the biggest bargain of the summer, combining solid info with a sense of humor and a dash of perspective. For those just starting out on the road to green living, this book will serve as a source of inspiration and provide enough basic steps to getting you on the right track. Feel like you already know it all? Think again. There is SO much packed into these 300+ pages that I can guarantee there is something new under the sun. Not just fashion/style either; skin and hair care receive serious coverage (!!!) and consideration. Vegan? There are plenty of helpful and fun notes and sources listed for you as well as for straight up eco and/or vintage fashionistas.

Sweater Surgery: it's a little bit Annie & a little bit rock 'n' roll

With hard times upon us, it's time to dig through our closets (our neighbor's too, if they'll let us!) and pull out the sweaters that haven't been worn for the past season or two. Do mull, as some may be classics, or so stylin' they'll come back eventually, and you may really regret having to shell out $50 to get another...but don't mull for too long. Grab a needle and thread and go for it. This book is simple enough for anyone to understand - even non-English speakers could replicate anything in it as the photographs are gorgeous, and go hand in hand with diagrams. More advanced alterers/seamstresses will take off on their own once they see how it works. I looked forward to this book for literally months, and my expectations were realized. I will be trying out as many of these projects as I can sacrifice sweaters!