Elizabeth Holmes (4) (1980–)

Fashion! The Royals! Tons of photos! So yes, it’s like reading "People" magazine (which I honestly only read at my hairstylist’s) but it’s also history so that makes it legit, right? Or maybe just think of it as a guilty pleasure.

The book is divided into four segments, one for each of the royal women – Queen Elizabeth, Diana, Kate & Meghan. Beautiful clothes and speculation on color choices, hem lengths, accessories (hats, jewelry, shoes), hairstyles, and maternity wear.

This fascinating book was written by Elizabeth Holmes, an American writer and journalist based in San Francisco who is known for her coverage of British royal style and fashion messaging. Yes, that’s a term – “fashion messaging.” Much of the book is spent dissecting the meaning behind the choice of color, style, hem length, as well as the nods and references to Diana and/or the Queen.

Five pages of “Selected Bibliography” at the conclusion list all the books, periodicals, broadcast shows, etc. that were reviewed in researching this “nuanced look at the style and branding of the most influential members of the modern British royal family.”

Clothing always represents something, whether deliberate or unintentional. It’s easier to interpret when you know the dynamics (hindsight being 20/20). Whether you read this book for the historic insights into the royal women, or because you enjoy seeing beautiful people wearing beautiful clothes, you can’t deny that you will discover what is promised in the title: “So Many Thoughts on Royal Style.”… (more)