Search results for ""Chic""

'I loved it . . . Unputdownable' MICK HERRON'Like Daphne du Maurier he sustains the ambiguity deftly and deliciously' SUNDAY TIMES'Mysterious, suspenseful and suffused with paranoia' ALEX MICHAELIDES'Fast-paced and exhilarating, you'll be hooked' HEATWhen Finn Hensen gets a call from his sister Jess to say their father has died, neither is heartbroken. Their parents divorced many years ago, after which their father, Jimmy, continued to live a bohemian lifestyle in sun-soaked Mallorca. Ownership of his beautiful but dilapidated farmhouse in the mountains now passes to Finn and his sister. The only problem is that Jimmy recently remarried and his new wife, Ruensa, is still living there. The pair agree that Finn should go to Mallorca and tactfully take possession of their inheritance. When he arrives, however, Finn is surprised to find that Finca Siquia has been completely transformed into a chic Mediterranean bolthole by Ruensa and her twenty-seven-year-old daughter, Roze. The Spanish police, meanwhile, are asking awkward questions about Jimmy's death . . . Are Ruensa and Roze the helpless victims of circumstance? Or will they stop at nothing to get Finca Siquia for themselves?READERS LOVE JP DELANEY'Completely original and gripping' 5* reader review'Dark and unputdownable' 5* reader review'Had me on the edge of my seat at all times!' 5* reader review'Kept me guessing right til the end' 5* reader review'Thrilling and absorbing' 5* reader review

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Winner, Coral Horton Tullis Memorial Prize, Texas State Historical Association, 2014During the early 1970s, the nation’s turbulence was keenly reflected in Austin’s kaleidoscopic cultural movements, particularly in the city’s progressive country music scene. Capturing a pivotal chapter in American social history, Progressive Country maps the conflicted iconography of “the Texan” during the ’70s and its impact on the cultural politics of subsequent decades.This richly textured tour spans the notion of the “cosmic cowboy,” the intellectual history of University of Texas folklore and historiography programs, and the complicated political history of late-twentieth-century Texas. Jason Mellard analyzes the complex relationship between Anglo-Texan masculinity and regional and national identities, drawing on cultural studies, American studies, and political science to trace the implications and representations of the multi-faceted personas that shaped the face of powerful social justice movements. From the death of Lyndon Johnson to Willie Nelson’s picnics, from the United Farm Workers’ marches on Austin to the spectacle of Texas Chic on the streets of New York City, Texas mattered in these years not simply as a place, but as a repository of longstanding American myths and symbols at a historic moment in which that mythology was being deeply contested.Delivering a fresh take on the meaning and power of “the Texan” and its repercussions for American history, this detail-rich exploration reframes the implications of a populist moment that continues to inspire progressive change.

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The first major book on ISIS to be published since the group exploded on the international stage in summer 2014. Drawing on their unusual access to intelligence sources and material, law enforcement, and groundbreaking research into open source intelligence, Stern and Berger outline the origins of ISIS as the formidable terrorist group it has quickly become. ‘State of Terror’ delves into the ‘ghoulish pornography’ of pro-jihadi videos, the seductive appeal of ‘jihadi chic’ and the startling effectiveness of the Islamic State’s use of social media as a means of luring and recruiting citizens from countries such as the United States, Great Britain, and France—using recent examples such as Douglas McCain, the American citizen from Minnesota who joined ISIS and died in combat fighting on the side of the Islamic State. Although the picture Stern and Berger paint is bleak, ‘State of Terror’ also offers well-informed thoughts on potential government responses to ISIS – most importantly, emphasizing that we must alter our present conceptions of terrorism and react to the rapidly changing jihadi landscape, both online and off, as quickly as the terrorists do. ‘State of Terror: Jihad in the 21st Century’ is not only a compelling account of the evolution of a terrorist organization, but also a necessary book that attempts to answer the question of what our next move – as a country, as a government, as the world – should be.

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The glorious Connecticut property of Heide Hendricks and Rafe Churchill (of the architecture and interior design firm Hendricks Churchill) illustrates how a late nineteenth-century farmhouse can be adapted for stylish and comfortable twenty-first-century living. Rafe and Heide discovered their true home in a late 1800s New England farmhouse after a decade of living in Brooklyn, New York. The historic property, Ellsworth, is a showplace for their shared aesthetic and sensibility of designing for real life, and not for formality. At the core is a house of pared-down traditionalism with references to Shaker tranquility, Arts & Crafts practicality, and bohemian chic. Whimsical wallcoverings, striking colors, a mix of contemporary furniture and antiques, exciting works of art, and comfort abound turning a workaday house from the nineteenth century into a creative laboratory of the twenty-first. The house and its surroundings a constant work in progress with evolving interiors, landscaping objectives, a reconfigured sunroom, a barn restoration, and planned hiking trails have become an endless source of inspiration for the couple s many projects, which include residences in New England, New York s Hudson Valley, New York City, Oyster Bay, Boulder, and Austin. The narrative of the book addresses the couple s design process in terms of architecture, decoration, and final installation. As many Americans are deciding to leave cities for calmer, more connected lives in the country, Heide and Rafe illustrate how this transition can be one of beauty and logic.

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'A scintillating book' TLS 'Her company is a delight' Tatler 'Part memoir, part social history... sumptuous and unsparing' Financial Times A brilliantly witty memoir telling the story of a young woman's determined struggle for freedom The Orient Express hurtles towards the promised land, freeing Banine from her past. Escaping her ruined homeland and forced marriage, she aspires to a dazzling future in Paris. As a chic Parisienne she mingles with émigrés, artists and writers-and even contemplates love. But freedom brings challenges. Swept along by the forces of history, can Banine keep up? Filled with vivacious wit and a lust for life, this companion to Days in the Caucasus is a paean to bittersweet dreams and the quest for happiness. Part of the Pushkin Press Classics series: timeless storytelling by icons of literature, hand-picked from around the globe Translated by Anne Thompson-Ahmadova Banine (1905-1992) was born Umm El-Banu Assadullayeva, into a wealthy family in Baku, then part of the Russian Empire. Following the Russian Revolution and the subsequent fall of the Azerbaijan Democratic Republic, Banine was forced to flee her home country-first to Istanbul, and then to Paris. In Paris she formed a wide circle of literary acquaintances including Nicos Kazantzakis, André Malraux, Ivan Bunin and Teffi and eventually began writing herself. Parisian Days continues the story that began with Days in the Caucasus, which is also available from Pushkin Press.

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Discover the best-kept beauty secrets from three generations of editors and experts at Vogue Paris . . .'French beauty secrets that'll give you some ooh la la!' DAILY EXPRESS'Breaks down everything you've ever wanted to know about French beauty' INSTYLE_______ Your guide to French beauty will guide you through . . . · Simple changes to your beauty habits, from the correct way to wash your hair to the vital items no make-up bag should be without· How to give your skin a healthy glow in just a few simple steps· Advice for women of all ages, Jeunesse, Plenitude and Maturite, to ensure energy, confidence and happiness· Which self-tanners to use and how to apply for a beautiful, healthy, summer tan · The four pillars of French wellness: food, posture, exercise and movement you need and dormez-vousAnd much more . . . Clémence Von Mueffling draws on her family's wisdom and passion to show how you can achieve effortless French beauty at any age. Filled with tips, intimate anecdotes and expert interviews, Ageless Beauty is sure to become every woman's definitive beauty guide._______ 'A delicious dose of effortless chic, timeless glamour, priceless beauty secrets, self-care and self-confidence' Sarah Brown, former Beauty Director, VOGUE'This book is a magical guide, with expert advice in three categories so women of all ages will feel it is specifically tailored to them' Aerin Lauder, Style and Image Director of ESTEE LAUDER

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'A really lovely book for dog lovers' - Jilly Cooper'Charming, funny, heartwarming and full of dogs - what more could you want?' - Adam Kay, bestselling author of This is Going to Hurt'A joy from start to finish. I loved it!' - Stacey Halls, bestselling author of The Familiars'An absolutely glorious romp of a book' - Ruth Hogan, bestselling author of The Keeper of Lost ThingsKate MacDougall always knew her heart wasn't really in her job at Sotheby's. All around her, friends were finding their dream jobs and whooshing up career ladders. After yet another breakage, this time of two precious porcelain pigeons, she had enough, and walked out of her snoozy, back office existence into the unknown world of the then-nascent gig economy. London's No. 1 Dog-Walking Agency is the story of her next 9 years and the dogs (and people) she meets along the way. There's Winston, the Labrador, who isn't allowed to get muddy, even after his owners split up and then enlist Kate in their custody battle. There's the chic trio of Islington couples whose immaculately arranged dog walking schedule is thrown off when one of them gets off with the dog walker Kate has employed. There's Kate's long-suffering, dog-agnostic boyfriend Finlay, and her mother, who is always on the alert for wedding bells. Amongst all this, there's Kate herself: trying to work out what she wants from life, and when and how to get there.

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It is 1996 and Anne Strelau is sitting on a plane bound for London, heading towards the man she has loved since her teens. Having tired of the pretence of living 'normally', she has given in to her 'madness' and decided to confront the object of her passion, Peter Hemstedt. In fact, there is little that is 'normal' about Anne. Most obviously, at 112 kg, she is grotesquely overweight. "This is Not a Love Song" is the story of Anne's ups and downs: of her unhappy childhood, her miserable adolescence, and the start of her obsession with her weight. 'The decision to embark on the first diet is a decisive, if not the most decisive, step in a girl's life', she decides. 'In any case, it is more important than the hugely overrated event of losing your virginity.' First anorexic then bulimic, she measures her self-worth in kilos and boyfriends. Then she falls for handsome, successful Hemstedt. When her love is not returned, she fakes 'normality' and gets a job. But still nothing works. 'I have reached a point', she records in her mid-thirties, 'where I no longer believe in anyone or anything, apart from chocolate.' A brilliantly black comedy about obesity, adult disappointment and cynicism, wars, ecological disasters and passing fashions, "This is Not a Love Song" serves up irresistibly macabre chic lit with a thick coating of grime and fat.

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‘Majestic, ambitious’ Literary Review ____________________________________ We are endlessly fascinated by the French. We are fascinated by their way of life, their creativity and sophistication, and even their insistence that they are exceptional. But how did France become the country it is today, and what really sets it apart? Historian Peter Watson sets out to answer these questions in this dazzling history of France, taking us from the seventeenth century to the present day through the nation’s most influential thinkers. He opens the doors to the Renaissance salons that brought together poets, philosophers and scientists, and tells the forgotten stories of the extraordinary women who ran these institutions, fostering a culture of stylish intellectualism unmatched anywhere else in the world. It’s a story that takes us into Bohemian cafés and cabarets, into chic Parisian high culture via French philosophies of food, fashion and sex, and through two explosive revolutions.The French Mind is a history propelled by the writers, revolutionaries and painters who loved, inspired and rivalled one another over four hundred years. It documents the shaping of a nation whose global influence, in art, culture and politics, cannot be overstated. __________________________________________ ‘An encyclopaedic celebration of French intellectuals refusing to give up on universal principles, while remaining slim, bringing up well-behaved children and falling in love at every opportunity’ The Times 'An engaging movement through time towards France's recent reckonings with extremism, exceptionalism and empire' TLS

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A curated guide to the most chic, stylish and unique trips around the UK – all within easy reach of London – from the creators of the hugely successful Instagram account @prettylittlelondon. Sometimes even Londoners need a change of scenery – the fresh sea air and the sand between our toes, the bright lights of a new city to discover, the relaxing charm of a small town, or rolling hills with no other people in sight. Your guides, Sara and Andrea, have scoured the UK for their favourite places to visit for those precious escapes, all a short ride away from the capital. Introducing you to the most stylish destinations, they recommend how to get the most out of each experience with the best places to eat, drink, sleep and shop, as well as providing cultural highlights and picturesque walks.Each trip is tailored to a mood, interest or season and provides insider tips on how to make the most of your precious time, and – of course – take those all-important photos for your grid. Whether you’re a born-and-bred Londoner bored of the same old days out, visiting from abroad and want to see the ‘real’ UK, or a London-living country bumpkin in need of inspiration – this book will offer something for you. With 50 day trips and weekend getaways, Pretty Little London: Trips is the ultimate guide to escaping the city.

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Dana Thomas's Deluxe: How Luxury Lost its Lustre goes deep inside the workings of today's world of profit margins and market share to discover the real meaning of 'luxury'. Fashion may be fabulous, but what's the true price of luxury? From the importance of fashion owners, to red carpet stars and the seasonal 'must-have' handbags, Dana Thomas shows how far illustrious houses have moved from their roots. Thomas witnesses how these 'luxury' handbags are no longer one in a million, discovers why luxury brand clothing doesn't last as long, and finds out just who is making your perfume. From terrifying raids on the Chinese sweat shops to the daunting chic of Paris workshops, from the handcrafting and economics of early-twentieth century designers to the violent truth behind the 'harmless' fakes, Deluxe goes deep into the world of extravagance, and asks: where can true luxury go now? 'Definitive' Daily Telegraph 'Thomas's message is relevant to shoppers of every stripe' The New York Times 'Thomas explores what luxury meant before the word was both inflated and devalued' Guardian 'Great aversion therapy ... we suspect we're being fleeced, but we don't know with what cynical dedication' The Times Dana Thomas is now European Editor for Portfolio following twelve years as the cultural and fashion writer for Newsweek in Paris. She has written about style for the New York Times Magazine since 1994, and has contributed to various publications including the New Yorker, Harper's Bazaar, Vogue and the Financial Times.

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Winner of the 2010 Non-Fiction National Book Award Patti Smith's definitive memoir is an evocative, honest and moving coming-of-age story of her extraordinary relationship with the artist Robert Mapplethorpe ‘Sharp, elegiac and finely crafted' Sunday Times ‘Terrifically evocative ... The most spellbinding and diverting portrait of funky-but-chic New York in the late '60s and '70s that any alumnus has committed to print' New York Times ‘Render, harrowing, often hilarious' Vogue In 1967, a chance meeting between two young people led to a romance and a lifelong friendship that would carry each to international success never dreamed of. The backdrop is Brooklyn, Chelsea Hotel, Max's Kansas City, Scribner's Bookstore, Coney Island, Warhol's Factory and the whole city resplendent. Among their friends, literary lights, musicians and artists such as Harry Smith, Bobby Neuwirth, Allen Ginsberg, Sandy Daley, Sam Shepherd, William Burroughs, etc. It was a heightened time politically and culturally; the art and music worlds exploding and colliding. In the midst of all this two kids made a pact to always care for one another. Scrappy, romantic, committed to making art, they prodded and provided each other with faith and confidence during the hungry years--the days of cous-cous and lettuce soup. Just Kids begins as a love story and ends as an elegy. Beautifully written, this is a profound portrait of two young artists, often hungry, sated only by art and experience. And an unforgettable portrait of New York, her rich and poor, hustlers and hellions, those who made it and those whose memory lingers near.

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A compelling debut novel exploring postpartum depression—for readers of suspenseful women’s fiction and fans of Lionel Shriver’s We Need to Talk About Kevin.They say motherhood changes you.As a driven advertising executive, Lara James has always put her career before any plans for a family, preferring professional chic to stay-at-home style. But after her father’s death, she realizes she’s ready. More than ready, in fact. Yet pregnancy—something other women seem to accomplish effortlessly, even accidentally—doesn’t come easily to Lara. What began as an adventure quickly becomes a nightmare as she and her husband endure endless IVF treatments, hormone therapy, and devastating miscarriages.When Lara at last becomes pregnant and gives birth to a daughter, Auden, she believes their determination has paid off. But Auden cries day and night, ear-shattering screams that strip Lara of her nerves and energy. Her life as a sleep-deprived new mother is unrelenting, and, guiltily, Lara can’t help but mourn for what she once had. With her marriage crumbling, Lara is increasingly driven to alarming thoughts and destructive actions she would never have imagined possible before now. Hanging on by a thread, it’s only in her darkest moment that Lara will discover the true depths of her love and devotion—and what she’s willing to face for the family she’s so desperately sought.At times disturbing, The Unprotected is a bold, unflinching novel for anyone who’s ever wanted children—and wondered what they might have to sacrifice along the way.

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Following up on her celebrated first Salvage Secrets book, which Fine Homebuilding called “An invaluable first step in the salvage-for-design journey,” here salvage design guru Joanne Palmisano takes readers further, exploring a wealth of smaller-scale interior design and decor concepts. Bottle caps turned into a kitchen backsplash, old bed springs reinvented as candle holders, and a recycled shipping container-turned-guesthouse are just a few examples of the innovative repurposing of second-hand items that readers will discover. From retro and modern to classic, “cottage,” and urban chic, Palmisano takes readers on a sumptuous visual journey featuring unique salvage ideas in an eclectic array of styles, for every room in the house—kitchens and dining rooms, bedrooms and bathrooms, living rooms and dens, and entryways and outdoor areas. The journey continues with a sampling of cutting-edge retail spaces, hotels, cafes, and boutiques across the country that incorporate salvage into their designs, such as Industrie Denim in San Francisco, Stowe Mountain Lodge in Stowe, Vermont, and Rejuvenation in Portland. Profiles of thirteen “salvage success stories” are also included, showcasing the imaginative designs of creative homeowners. And lastly, fourteen easy, do-it-yourself projects are included at the back of the book (with step-by-step instructions), not to mention a comprehensive “Where to Find Salvage” resource section. Packed with over 350 color photos, Salvage Secrets Design & Decor offers a trove of salvage ideas to inspire, proving that you need look no further than your local rebuild center, architectural salvage shop, or flea market to transform your living space.

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Two of the most celebrated black neighborhoods in the United States - Harlem in New York City and Bronzeville in Chicago - were once plagued by crime, drugs, and abject poverty. But now both have transformed into increasingly trendy and desirable neighborhoods, with old buildings being rehabbed, new luxury condos being built, and banks opening branches in areas that were once redlined. In "The New Urban Renewal", Derek S. Hyra offers an illuminating exploration of the complicated web of factors - local, national, and global - driving the remarkable revitalization of these two iconic black communities.How did these formerly notorious ghettos become dotted with expensive restaurants, health spas, and chic boutiques? And, given that urban renewal in the past often meant displacing African Americans, how have both neighborhoods remained black enclaves? Hyra combines his personal experiences as a resident of both communities with deft historical analysis to investigate who has won and who has lost in the new urban renewal. He discovers that today's redevelopment affects African Americans differentially: the middle class benefits while lower-income residents are priced out. Federal policies affecting this process also come under scrutiny, and Hyra breaks new ground with his penetrating investigation into the ways that economic globalization interacts with local political forces to massively reshape metropolitan areas.As public housing is torn down and money floods back into cities across the United States, countless neighborhoods are being monumentally altered. "The New Urban Renewal" is a compelling study of the shifting dynamics of class and race at work in the contemporary urban landscape.

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Though the Roaring Twenties call to mind images of flappers dancing the Charleston and gangsters dispensing moonshine in back rooms, Sylvia Lovegren here playfully reminds us what these characters ate for dinner: Banana and Popcorn Salad. Like fashions and fads, food - even bad food - has a history, and Lovegren's Fashionable Food is quite literally a cookbook of the American past. Well researched and delightfully illustrated, this collection of faddish recipes from the 1920s to the 1990s is a decade-by-decade tour of a hungry American century. From the Three P's Salad - that's peas, pickles, and peanuts - of the post-World War I era to the Fruit Cocktail and Spam Buffet Party loaf - all the range in the ultra-modern 1950s, when cooking from a can epitomized culinary sophistication - Fashionable Food details the origins of these curious delicacies. In two chapters devoted to "exotic foods of the East," for example, Lovegren explores the long American love affair with Chinese food and the social status conferred upon anyone chic enough to eat pu-pu platters from Polynesia. Throughout, Lovegren supplements recipes - some mouth-watering, some appalling - from classic cookbooks and family magazines with humorous anecdotes that chronicle how society and kitchen technology influenced the way we lived and how we ate. Equal parts American and culinary history, Fashionable Food examines our collective past from the kitchen counter. Even if it's been a while since you last had Tang Pie and your fondue set is collecting dust in the back of the cupboard, Fashionable Food will inspire, entertain, and inform.

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Tokyo is ground zero for Japan's famous "geek" or otaku culture—a phenomenon that has now swept across the globe.This is the most comprehensive Japan travel guide ever produced which features Tokyo's geeky underworld. It provides a comprehensive run-down of each major Tokyo district where geeks congregate, shop, play and hang out—from hi-tech Akihabara and trendy Harajuku to newer and lesser-known haunts like chic Shimo-Kita and working-class Ikebukuro. Dozens of iconic shops, restaurants, cafes and clubs in each area are described in loving detail with precise directions to get to each location. Maps, URLs, opening hours and over 400 fascinating color photographs bring you around Tokyo on an unforgettable trip to the centers of Japanese manga, anime and geek culture. Interviews with local otaku experts and people on the street let you see the world from their perspective and provide insights into Tokyo and Japanese culture, which will only continue to spread around the globe. Japanese pop culture, in its myriad forms, is more widespread today than ever before—with J-Pop artists playing through speakers everywhere, Japanese manga filling every bookstore; anime cartoons on TV; and toys and video games, like Pokemon Go, played by tens of millions of people. Swarms of visitors come to Tokyo each year on a personal quest to soak in all the otaku-related sights and enjoy Japanese manga, anime, gaming and idol culture at its very source. This is the go-to resource for those planning a trip, or simply dreaming of visiting one day!

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20 stunning ideas for upcycling and repurposing preloved fabrics! Are you trying to cut down on clothing and fabric waste, but are short on ideas of what to do with unwanted garments, bedsheets or curtains? In this brand-new collaboration between sewing superstar Debbie Shore and her dressmaker-blogger daughter, Kimberley Hind, find 20 ideas for upcycling pre-loved fabrics to make stylish accessories for you and your home. As well as invaluable guidance on choosing your fabrics, notions and extras, discover a collection of contemporary projects to create using old garments from around the house or saved from charity/thrift shops: a boho-style lampshade made from an old dress; pillows made from men's shirts; a fabulous mid-twentieth-century handbag cut from pre-loved ladies' jackets; a chic shirt-sourced throw, plus a whole range of designs to sew and inspire you! Every project includes easy-to-follow instructions and illustrated steps. The variety of techniques used for the projects, such as English paper piecing, piping, fitting zips, dyeing and felting, are also explained clearly and with photographs, helping you create professional (and enviable) results. The beauty of working with pre-owned fabrics is that you won’t get shrinkage or risk colour running, plus you'll have a fabulous choice of unique fabrics that you just wouldn’t be able to buy new. Be inspired to give it a go and keep your fabric from landfill. Take a look in your wardrobe, salvage your old favourites and give them a new lease of life.

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"While there’s no shortage of incredibly chic photos from Hepburn’s time in the spotlight here, original sketches of Holly Golightly’s costumes and jewels truly can’t be missed." — Natural Diamonds "This entrancing book portrays Hepburn's majesty both on and off screen, giving us a refined and informed look at the actress's life." — The Lady An unrivalled icon of grace and femininity, Audrey Hepburn is perhaps the most beloved star in the history of cinema. She enchanted millions of people with the sweetness of her smile and her inimitable style and was able to renew her image throughout the decades, anticipating fashion trends and establishing a new ideal of beauty. This volume retraces Hepburn's incredible rise, from the early years to her worldwide fame. The book is divided into four sections: ‘A Star is Born’, which follows Audrey’s first steps into the spotlight as a doe-eyed dancer; ‘The Golden Age’, how Audrey became the muse of Hubert de Givenchy and gave Hollywood a new ideal of elegance; ‘A Diva’s Style’, which touches on Breakfast at Tiffany’s, where Holly Golighty went down in the history of cinema with her sunglasses and little black dress, along with many others of Audrey’s later film work; and ‘Saving the Children’. This final section of the book puts great emphasis on her humanitarian work as UNICEF ambassador, on the side of all the children of the world. Both on screen and in real life, Audrey has remained faithful to the elegance of understatement and kindness, hidden behind her unforgettable smile.

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Bead Jewelry 101 is an all-in-one essential resource for making beaded jewelry. This complete entry-level course includes 30 step-by-step projects that demonstrate fundamental methods for stringing, wire work, and more. Begin your jewelry journey with the basics, including a photographic glossary of jewelry materials and tools. Then, learn fundamental techniques such as making wire loops, adding a clasp, and opening and closing a jump ring. A wide variety of projects offer even more techniques. Make basic drop earrings, a beaded cluster bracelet, a woven bracelet with pearls, elegant draped chain earrings, a beaded memory wire bracelet, and much more. Build your skills with each piece you make, and try the project variations—or design your own creations. Clear step-by-step instructions and photos make the process easy and fun. In Bead Jewelry 101 you’ll also discover: A world of beautiful beads, including metal, pearl, plastic, polymer clay, stone, shell, and wood. Approachable techniques for beading, wire work, and stringing that will boost your jewelry-making skills. A wide variety of jewelry styles: sophisticated, playful, chic, bohemian, and modern. Troubleshooting tips and quick references Beginners will find the accompanying online videos that capture the techniques in action an invaluable resource. In no time, you’ll be making jewelry you’ll be proud to wear. Written specifically for beginners, the books in the 101 series are complete illustrated guides to the basics of a craft that use projects presented with full-color, step-by-step instructions and photos to teach essential techniques.

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If you need an emergency craft fix, then this book has the answer! Armed with a crochet hook and some yarn you can rustle up these gorgeous projects in next to no time. Granny squares are a simple and fun way to get creative when time is short, whill offering a fashionable way to use up your yarn stash. From hats and coasters to cute toys and decorations, Granny Squares Weekend is packed with inspiring projects that can be finished in a couple of days. As well as iconic granny square patterns, this book explores the scope of the technique, using it as an edging for blankets and in chic single-colour projects. AUTHOR: Inspired by the imagination of children, Emma likes to make items that bring a smile. She has not only written a number of popular crochet books - Crocheted Keyrings and Charms, Cute Crocheted Animals and How to Crochet, all published by GMC Publications - but also worked closely with yarn companies and retailers to design exclusive contemporary patterns. She has had a number of successful collaaborations with the celebrated knitwear designer Debbie Bliss and she regularly shares her design inspiration and thought processes through her award-winning knitting and crochet blog: emmavarnam.co.uk. Emma lives in Greater Manchester with her husband and young son. SELLING POINTS: . 20 stylish projects that can be completed over a weekend. . Easy-to-follow patterns with sumptuous photographs. . Clear explanations of all the techniques and materials you will need. . Suitable for all levels of ability. . A modern twist on a traditional technique.

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Italy's 'second city' oozes culture and style - Milan has exquisite architecture, world-class museums, chic boutiques, bustling markets and trendy night spots - and all of this within striking distance of the tranquility of the Italian lakes. Your DK Eyewitness Top 10 travel guide ensures you'll find your way around Milan and the Lakes with absolute ease.Our newly updated Top 10 travel guide breaks down the best of Milan and the Lakes into helpful lists of ten - from our own selected highlights to the best museums, places to eat, shops and festivals.You'll discover:- Nine easy-to-follow itineraries, perfect for a day-trip, a weekend, or a week- Detailed Top 10 lists of Milan's must-sees, including detailed descriptions of Leonardo's Last Supper, Milan's Duomo, Pinacoteca di Brera, Castello Sforzesco, Pinacoteca Ambrosiana, Sant'Ambrogio, Navigli, Isole Borromee, Bergamo and Mantua- Milan and the Lakes' most interesting areas, with the best places for shopping, dining, and sightseeing- Inspiration for different things to enjoy during your trip - including children's attractions, things to do for free and and hidden gems off the beaten track- A laminated pull-out map of Milan and the Lakes, plus eight colour area maps- Streetsmart advice: get ready, get around, and stay safe- A lightweight format perfect for your pocket or bag when you're on the moveDK Eyewitness Top 10s are the UK's favourite pocket guides and have been helping travellers to make the most of their breaks since 2002. Looking for more on Milan's culture, history and attractions? Try our DK Eyewitness Italy.

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Learn how to make stylish dried floral designs that will last longer than freshly cut bouquets.Do you adore having flowers around the house but they always seem to wilt and fall to pieces as soon as you place them in water? No longer! Join the trend of DIY drying and create stunning bouquets that will outlast fresh cuts while still adding that soft, romantic floral touch.Expert florist Carolyn Dunster breathes new life into the age-old art of growing, drying, and displaying blooms in ways that will bring a chic, natural vibe to any room. Whether you are looking for elegant DIY bridal arrangements or trying to add a little bohemian flair to a room's décor, there are dried designs that will complement every aesthetic and occasion.Written for a new, younger audience that is just discovering the art of drying flowers and from a popular British botanical stylist with a penchant for urban gardening, this book is a modern spin on a classic craft. For those who are concerned with environmental impact, dried flowers are also gaining popularity as a more sustainable approach to floristry.Dried flowers are perfect for:DIY bridal bouquets and table arrangements Stylish home décorSprucing up your place of business in an affordable, low maintenance wayThis book is an ideal purchase for anyone wanting to get started with the art of growing and drying flowers. Learn how to grow your own stems and the best combinations of colour and texture to create floral sculptures that breathe new life into any space in any season.

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A Paris Guide Book for the Traveler’s PaletteFrom macarons to madeleines, and soufflé to pain suisse, Local Eats Paris is ideal for finding the right post-museum coffee or snack between metro stops. By pairing whimsical illustrations with charming descriptions, this Paris travel guide introduces first-time visitors and veteran travelers alike to the typical foods of Parisian restaurants and markets.A pocket dictionary for foodies. With the dizzying range of culinary delights that Paris has to offer, enjoying a typical French meal doesn’t come easy to the foreign traveler. What’s the difference between camembert and brie? What are rilletes? And what does pot-au-feu mean? Complete with mouth-watering descriptions and brightly elegant illustrations, Local Eats Paris is a traveler’s guide to decoding the culinary finds of the City of Lights.For fans of Julia Child books and travel guides. Just bigger than a passport, Local Eats Paris fits alongside chic travel accessories and won’t weigh down a carry-on. Divided by type of eatery, it walks readers through patisseries, bistros, fromageries, and common street foods, introducing the unique and unusual treats found in Paris. A delight from start to finish, this Paris guide is perfect for travel gifts or gifts for chefs. Including all sorts of traditional French staple foods and cooking basics, this French cooking book also features: Handy phrases for ordering like a local Perfect picnic food pairings A what's what of market food If you enjoy travel books, foodie books, or French cooking gifts—like Edible French, Let's Eat France!, Culinaria France, and A Bite-Sized History of France—then you’ll love Local Eats Paris.

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There has never been and will never be another nightclub to rival the sheer glamour, energy, and wild creativity that was Studio 54. Now, in the first official book on the legendary club, co-owner Ian Schrager presents a spectacular volume brimming with star-studded photographs and personal stories from the greatest party of all time. From the moment it opened in 1977, Studio 54 celebrated spectacle and promised a never-ending parade of anything goes. Although it existed for only three years, it served as a catalyst that brought together some of the most famous and creative people in the world. It quickly became known for its celebrity guest list and uniquely chic clientele. From the cutting-edge lighting displays to its elaborate sets, it was the beginning of nightclub as performance art. Now, Studio 54 explores this cultural zeitgeist and gives us Schrager s personal firsthand account of what it was like to create and run the most famous nightclub of our age. With hundreds of photographs, many of which have never been seen before, of the celebrities and beautiful people and engaging stories and quotes from such cultural luminaries as Liza Minelli, David Geffen, Brooke Shields, Pat Cleveland, and Diane von Furstenberg, this exciting volume depicts the wild energy and glittering creativity of the era. One of the most important cultural landmarks of the twentieth century, Studio 54 continues to inspire with its legendary glamour. This exhilarating volume is a must-have for style and fashion aficionados today.

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Hawai’i is one of the most ethnically and racially diverse places in the world due to its central location in the Pacific. Situated at the crossroads of different cultures, Honolulu has a style all of its own. Honolulu Street Style captures this unique approach as it demonstrates how global trends are transformed by stylish Honolulu denizens to give them a unique, local look. Divided into chapters on hair, hats, accessories and beachwear, the book features the styles of people encountered on the street in many different neighbourhoods, with an essay on the history and clothing of Hawai’i as a whole. The neighbourhood fashion explored includes that of iconic Waikiki, which conjures images most people associate with Hawai’i, yet the mass-produced tourist clothing belies a deeper fashion culture hidden in local enclaves and local boutiques that foster an upscale, casual style. Chinatown is a neighbourhood of dramatic colour and exotic touches, and it hosts 'First Friday' events that transform the neighbourhood into a crowded hub of artistic, musical and retail activity. As the photos show, the Kaka’ako neighbourhood draws a crowd that is hip, travelled and not afraid to venture off the beaten path. In contrast, the Manoa valley, home to the flagship campus of the University of Hawai’i, presents itself as an eclectic mix of students and professionals dressed in everything from boho chic to surfer, skater, avant-garde and casual professional style. A highly visual book with full-colour street style photography, Honolulu Street Style will be a landmark publication in the study of place and style.

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Emily Henson explores the elements that come together to create this eclectic, colourful and contemporary look and draws inspiration from an array of real-life Bohemian Modern homes. The Bohemian Modern home is a place where creativity, individuality and a bold mix of colour and pattern meet in a modern environment. Whitewashed walls and polished concrete floors are brought to life by vibrant rugs and wall hangings; a cosy rattan chair suspended from the ceiling, and a jungle of house plants – clustered in pots, hanging from the ceiling or even growing on the walls. The style gives a nod to ’70s chic, with its use of shagpile rugs, Swiss cheese plants, and macramé, but it stands firmly in the present day by boldly contrasting those elements with sleek modern art and polished concrete worksurfaces. Emily starts by taking a look at the different facets of the look: pattern and colour, textiles, handmade pieces, living with houseplants, and collections and display. She offers up styling tricks to use at home and timely ideas for recycling and reuse. Next, a series of case studies take a closer look at free-spirited and creative homes and the people who live in them. From a restored barn on the coast of Morocco to a former parking garage in the Netherlands that's been converted into a flexible family live/work space, Emily shows that any home can have Bohemian Modern style. Bohemian Modern is a fantastic new edition of the previously published title of the same name.

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*The brand new thriller from Lucy Foley – THE MIDNIGHT FEAST – is available to pre-order now* *The No.1 New York Times and Sunday Times bestseller* Discover the electric thriller from the No.1, million-copy bestseller, Lucy Foley There was a murder here last night. Who holds the key to the mystery of apartment three? ‘Dazzling’ The Times ‘Up-all-night reading’ Erin Kelly ‘Gloriously twisty’ Ruth Ware ‘Combines edge-of-your-seat tension with out-and-out Parisian chic’ Adele Parks _________________________________________________________________ In a beautiful old apartment block, deep in the backstreets of Paris, secrets are stirring behind every resident’s door. The lonely wife The party animal The curtain-twitcher The secret lover The watchful caretaker The unwanted guest One resident is missing. Only the killer holds the key to the mystery… _________________________________________________________________ What readers are saying about The Paris Apartment: ‘One to devour entirely in one delicious sitting. Stupendous’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ‘Twisty and mysterious and surprising’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ‘Had me gripped right from the beginning’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 'Has “book of the year” written all over it’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ‘A page-turner with an amazing setting’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ‘A fabulously tense and mysterious read!’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ The Paris Apartment was a New York Times No.1 bestseller for w/e 06/03/2022 The Guest List was a Sunday Times No.1 bestseller for w/c 14/09/2022 The Guest List was the Goodreads Choice Awards winner for Crime & Mystery 2020

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A practical tool kit for mending your clothes and upcycling your wardrobe.It's "sew" simple to give your wardrobe an eco-chic edge! With fast fixes and clever techniques, this accessible, fully illustrated sewing book has everything you need to mend, customise and care for your clothes.Parting with damaged, yet beloved, clothes can be one of the saddest moments, but what if you were able to repair, refresh, and extend the life of your threadbare favourites.The Art of Mending and Sewing Mend It. Wear It. Love It is for everyone! Packed full of simple fixes, as well as advanced techniques, this book is perfect for sewers, crafters, and fashion lovers of all experience levels.Inside the pages of this sewing handbook discover:- Beautiful, step-by-step line illustrations and clear instructions that demystify mending techniques - How to make your clothes last longer with clever storage and stain removal- Thrifty tips and tricks to help you upcycle your pre-loved garments- Highlights the sustainability benefits of mending and caring for clothesNow you can cherish all your garments, even those in the furthest corner of your closet! This sewing book for beginners will help you master the skills to repair a seam and mend a hem, even if you've never touched a needle and thread before!This sewing book arms you with the techniques you need to enjoy your clothes for longer and express your creativity. Detailed step-by-step illustrations and clear instructions explain how to sew, re-purpose, and care for your clothes in a range of materials.

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The Mediterranean is surrounded by three continents – Europe, Africa and Asia – and even though the cultures around this sea are highly diverse, they harmoniously share a pleasant climate, distinctive flora and fauna, and not least the intense blue of the water. Angelika Taschen set out in search of the most beautiful hotels on a great variety of coasts, islands and beaches, taking you on a journey to the luxurious Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc and the ultra-chic Les Roches Rouges on the Côte d’Azur, to the little-known Pardini’s Hermitage on the Italian island of Giglio, which is only accessible by boat or on foot, and to Bodrum in Turkey, where the elegant Amanruya resort lies hidden in one of the most stunning bays in the Mediterranean. She also presents new hotel concepts, great architecture and creative design – such as the finca Menorca Experimental on the Balearic Islands, the modernist Villa Dubrovnik in Croatia and Dexamenes on the Peloponnese, where new life was breathed into decommissioned wine tanks. Further highlights are the brand-new, stylishly designed Mezzatorre on Ischia and the Torre di Cala Piccola with its enchanting private beach on the Argentario peninsula in Tuscany, an almost unknown location that possesses the aura of 1960s Italy. Another gem is La Locanda del Barbablù, with just five rooms in the shadow of the mythical volcano on Stromboli. Look forward to staying at the Nord-Pinus in Tangier with its fantastic view of the Strait of Gibraltar, and the charming Coco-Mat Eco Residences on Serifos, or experiencing the originality of Ammos on Crete, where the art and design are as essential as the sun and the beach.

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"... fashion journalist Claudia Joseph opens the door to the world’s most coveted closet." — Elle "Diana: A Life in Dresses chronicles Princess Diana’s sartorial evolution from her early shopping days at Harrods to working with world-renowned designers like Catherine Walker." — Harpers Bazaar "This stylish survey traces Di’s evolution from unsophisticated debutante to fashion icon, telling the stories behind her most famous, and infamous, dresses." — New York Post ‘I literally had one long dress, one silk shirt, one smart pair of shoes and that was it’ – so Princess Diana said of the day she and Prince Charles got engaged. Sixteen years later, Diana would die, no longer the girl with one dress, but a global fashion icon who had raised more than £2 million for charity by selling 79 of her dresses at Christie’s auction house in New York. This chic and stylish book opens Diana’s wardrobe to the world. From the Regamus debutante’s dress Diana wore at a ball at Althorp, her family estate, to her infamous Christina Stambolian ‘Revenge’ dress, which she wore on the night Prince Charles publicly admitted his adultery with Camilla Parker Bowles, each iconic moment is captured in these pages. Claudia Joseph chronicles Diana’s style evolution from the days she shopped with her mother for her wedding trousseau at Harrods, to her discovery of her wedding dress designers, the Emanuels, and her relationship with Vogue fashion director Anna Harvey, who introduced her to designers such as Catherine Walker, Jacques Azagury and Versace. She looks at the designers who shaped Diana’s image and tracks down her most symbolic dresses to museums around the world.

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A visual history of the spaceships, alien landscapes, cryptozoology, and imagined industrial machinery of 1970s paperback sci-fi artIn the 1970s, mass-produced, cheaply printed science fiction novels were thriving. The paper was rough, the titles outrageous, and the cover art astounding. Over the course of the decade, a stable of talented painters, comic book artists, and designers produced thousands of the most eye-catching book covers to ever grace bookstore shelves (or spinner racks). Curiously, the pieces commissioned for these covers often had very little to do with the contents of the books they were selling, but by leaning heavily on psychedelic imagery, far-out landscapes, and trippy surrealism, the art was able to satisfy the same space-race fueled appetite for the big ideas and brave new worlds that sci-fi writers were boldly pushing forward.In Worlds Beyond Time: Sci-Fi Art of the 1970s, Adam Rowe—who has been curating, championing, and resurrecting the best and most obscure art that 1970s sci-fi has to offer for more than five years on his blog 70s Sci-Fi Art—introduces readers to the biggest names in the genre, including Chris Foss, Peter Elson, Tim White, Jack Gaughan, and Virgil Finlay, as well as their influences. With deep dives into the subject matter that commonly appeared on these covers—spaceships, alien landscapes, fantasy realms, cryptozoology, and heavy machinery—this book is a loving tribute to a unique and robust art form whose legacy lives on both in nostalgic appreciation as well as the retro-chic design of mainstream sci-fi films such as Guardians of the Galaxy, Alien: Covenant, and Thor: Ragnarok.

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Create your own unique hand-dyed fashion and homewares with simple tie dye techniques you can master at home. Tie dye is back – and in a big way! Gracing catwalks and chic interiors the world over, hand-dyed textiles have never been cooler. This super-practical guide will show you everything you need to know to recreate these fantastic fabric effects in your own kitchen. Featuring an illustrated directory of dyeing techniques, the book reveals more than 25 creative effects that can be achieved with ease. From tie dye to dip dyeing to pole wrapping, space dyeing to bleaching, trendy ombre shading to classic circles, this book contains all the essential skills you need to create contemporary patterned textiles. First you'll learn the basic steps needed to achieve beginner-level tie dyeing including choosing fabrics, selecting tools, creating a dye bath, different dyes and recipes, colours and design placement, and basic folding and clamping techniques. You'll then go on to master a wide range of tie dying techniques through step-by-step guides. Each technique is accompanied by a great project to show you how to use the technique to fantastic effect on clothing and home décor items. Create a basic dip-dyed dress, a pleated pole-wrapped t-shirt, a stitch resist pillowcase, a marble heat-set scarf, a striped tote bag, scrunch-dyed curtains, a rope-dyed table runner, bleached trousers, a space-dyed throw rug, a rust-transfer wall hanging and more! Each technique is shown with variations demonstrating the how you can adapt or manipulate the effect and clear photography ensures you will understand ever step of the process to achieve stunning results.

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Turn your wardrobe and accessories into a stylish, kaleidoscope of colour, and dip into the world of tie dye! Tie dye has taken the fashion world by storm. Once associated with the hippie movement, tie dye is now chic and edgy, and – in our eco-conscious world – can transform your old clothes into beautifully colourful, patterned pieces. With a few twists, elastic bands and a volume of dye, your once-loved T-shirts, denim jackets, hoodies, skirts and shorts turn into iconic, vibrant pieces that you'll love to wear, whatever the weather! Tie dye is something everyone can do, even beginners. In this book, master both basic and more advanced tie-dye styles project by project, using hand-made or fibre-reactive dyes. Now you can create designs such as bullseye, shibori and mandala patterns without hurting the planet. The beginning of the book includes a chapter on natural dyes and how to make them in your own kitchen, saving not just money but the environment too by avoiding the use of harsh chemicals. It will also discuss some eco-friendly alternatives for those who do not want to make their own dyes, as well as planet-friendly mordants that will ensure your dyed creations hold their colour. Illustrated steps and clear instructions accompany all 11 projects and tie-dye techniques, and each project comes with an alternative colourway to inspire. Thrifted or upcycled garments and accessories are used to make all the projects, so you can see how once-loved or upcycled clothing can easily turn into beautiful, vibrant pieces that you’ll love to wear.

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In recent years the modern world has developed a brave new concept: 'soft power'. It is the power of friendly persuasion rather than command, and it invites nations to compete (as they did in the nineteenth century) to expand their 'sphere of influence' as brands in a global marketplace. In Bloody Foreigners and The Last Wolf, Robert Winder explored the way Britain was shaped first by migration, and then by hidden geographical factors. Now, in Soft Power he reveals the ways in which modern states are asserting themselves not through traditional realpolitik but through alternative means: business, language, culture, ideas, sport, education, music, even food - the texture and values of history and daily life. Moving from West to East, the book tells the story of soft power by exploring the varied ways in which it operates - from an American sheriff in Poland to an English garden in Ravello, a French vineyard in Australia, an Asian restaurant in Spain, a Chinese Friendship Hall in Sudan; the fact that fifty-eight modern heads of state were educated in Britain; the student exchange that took a teenage Deng Xiaoping to a small town on the Loire; the way that Japan could seduce the world with chic food and smart computer games. Now there may be a new twist in this Great game. With soft power's quiet ingredients - education, science, trade, cultural values - and a new emphasis on shared mutual interest, it may be the only force supple enough to tackle the challenges the future looks likely to pose - not least the slam-the-door reflexes pulling in the other direction.

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"Encompasses everything I love about rom-coms. I laughed, I swooned, I smiled. Another hit for Julie Murphy!"- COLLEEN HOOVER, #1 SUNDAY TIMES BESTSELLING AUTHOR OF IT ENDS WITH USIf the shoe doesn't fit, maybe it's time to design your own.Cindy loves shoes. A well-placed bow or a chic stacked heel is her form of self-expression. As a fashion-obsessed plus-size woman, she can never find designer clothes that work on her body, but a special pair of shoes always fits just right.With a shiny new design degree but no job in sight, Cindy moves back in with her stepmother, Erica Tremaine, the executive producer of the world's biggest dating reality show. When a contestant on Before Midnight bows out at the last minute, Cindy is thrust into the spotlight. Showcasing her killer shoe collection on network TV seems like a great way to jump-start her career. And, while she's at it, why not go on a few lavish dates with an eligible suitor?But being the first and only plus-size contestant on Before Midnight turns her into a viral sensation -and a body-positivity icon- overnight. Even harder to believe? She can actually see herself falling for this Prince Charming. To make it to the end, despite the fans, the haters, and a house full of fellow contestants she's not sure she can trust, Cindy will have to take a leap of faith and hope her heels - and her heart - don't break in the process.Bestselling author Julie Murphy's reimagining of a beloved fairy tale is an enchanting story of self-love and believing in the happy ending each and every one of us deserves.

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Fulfilling a lifetime dream of finding a house by the sea, Pearl Lowe now brings her laid-back decorating style to coastal living with Faded Glamour by the Sea. Pearl Lowe's gloriously decadent yet perfectly lived-in decorating style was featured in her bestselling interiors book Faded Glamour. Now Pearl is taking us to the coast, and in Faded Glamour by the Sea we get the first glimpse of her new home – a beautiful renovation project that she and her husband, musician Danny Goffey, have created in East Sussex. Built in the 1940s for an artist whose shell sculptures are still dotted round the garden, the house and adjacent cabins have been lovingly restored by Pearl. The house may have been a life-long dream for the couple, who have always loved the solace of water, but it has only been just over a year in the making, thanks to the inspiration Pearl has drawn from many friends who live in the area and also further afield. And so she takes us on a tour of their seaside homes. A pair of antique dealers whose love of all things French inspired them to set up their own brocante in Kent; an artist with a love of beach huts; an author who swapped London life for a clifftop house with his own writer’s hut. Add to this the Malibu beachfront home of stylist Rachel Ashwell, the hippy-chic style of supermodel Helena Christensen’s waterside retreat and the ‘punk noir Victorian’ vibe of the hotel created by friends from rock band The Libertines. In Faded Glamour by the Sea Pearl visits these properties, and as the owners tell their stories she explains how she found inspiration for this new chapter in her life.

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A unique and engaging account of local urban decision-making within the globalizing world High Point, North Carolina, is known as the “Furniture Capital of the World.” Once a manufacturing stronghold, most of its furniture factories have closed over the past forty years, with production shipped off to low-wage countries. Yet as manufacturing left, the city tightened its hold on a biannual global exposition that serves as the world’s furniture fashion runway. At the High Point Market, visitors from more than one hundred nations traverse twelve million square feet of meticulous design. Downtown buildings—once courthouses, movie theaters, post offices, and gas stations—are now chic showroom spaces, even as many sit empty between each exposition.In Showroom City, John Joe Schlichtman applies an ethnographic lens to the global exposition’s relationship with High Point after it defeated rival Chicago in the 1960s and established itself as the world’s dominant furniture center. In recent decades, following trends in global finance, private equity firms were increasingly behind downtown High Point’s real estate transactions, coordinated by buyers far removed from the region. Then, in one massive transaction in 2011, a firm funded by Bain Capital purchased every major showroom building, and the majority of downtown real estate was under one owner. Showroom City is a story of exclusionary growth and unchecked development, of a city flailing to fill the void left by its dwindling factories. But beyond that Schlichtman engages the general lessons behind both High Point’s deindustrialization and its stunning reinvention as a furniture fashion, merchandising, and design node. With great nuance, he delves deeply to reveal how power operates locally and how citizens may affirm, exploit, influence, and resist the takeover of their community.

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It was the American Dream by Mail Order --Smithsonian Americans have ordered from Sears, Roebuck just about everything they have needed for their homes for 100 years--but from 1908 to 1940, some 100,000 people also purchased their houses from this mail-order wizard. Sears ready-to-assemble houses were ordered by mail and shipped by rail wherever a boxcar or two could pull in to unload the meticulously precut lumber and all the materials needed to build an exceptionally sturdy and well-designed house. From Philadelphia, Pa., to Coldwater, Kans., and Cowley, Wyo., Sears put its guarantee on quality bungalows, colonials and Cape Cods, all with the latest modern conveniences--such as indoor plumbing. Houses by Mail tells the story of these precut houses and provides for the first time an incomparable guide to identifying Sears houses across the country. Arranged for easy identification in 15 sections by roof type, the book features nearly 450 house models with more than 800 illustrations, including drawings of the houses and floor plans. Because the Sears houses were built to last, thousands remain today to be discovered and restored. Houses by Mail shows how to return them to their original charm while it documents a highly successful business enterprise that embodied the spirit and domestic design of its time. "After decades of obscurity, Sears houses have become chic." --Wall Street Journal "These were . spacious, solidly built homes." --Parade "Don't be surprised if your own cozy bungalow turns up [in the book]."--Philadelphia Inquirer "A nostalgic and informative look at the tastes of Americans in the years before World War II."--Publishers Weekly "The bible to researchers of Sears' ready-cut homes."--Saturday Evening Post

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Splashed against the tumultuous Clinton years and framed by the clash between gay political might and anti-gay activism, "All the Rage" presents the first authoritative guide to the new gay visibility. From the public outing of Ellen DeGeneres to the vicious murder of Matthew Shepard, gay lives and images have moved onto the centre stage of American public life. Lesbians and gay men are indeed everywhere, from television sitcoms to Budweiser ads, from the White House to the Magic Kingdom. Combining personal stories with incisive analysis, Suzanna Danuta Walters chronicles this historic moment in our culture, arguing that we live in a time when gays are seen, but not necessarily known. Many consider the new gay visibility a sign of social acceptance, while others charge that it is mere window dressing, obscuring the dogged persistence of discrimination. Walters moves beyond these positions and instead argues that these realities coexist: gays are at once the sign of social decay in our culture and the chic flavour of the month. Taking on the common wisdom that visibility means progress, "All the Rage" maps the terrain on which gays are accepted as witty accessories in movies, gain access to political power, and yet still fall into constrictive stereotypes. Walters warns us with clarity and wit of the pitfalls of equating visibility with full integration into the fabric of American society. From the playful TV fantasies of lesbian weddings on "Friends" to the very real obstacles confronting gay marriage, from the award-winning comedy "Will & Grace" to Bible-thumping radio superhost Dr. Laura, "All the Rage" takes on naive celebrants and jaded naysayers alike. With a sophisticated mix of caution and optimism, the book provides an illuminating guide through these heady, controversial times.

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Baroque palaces and energetic streets, old-school taquerías and contemporary art: experience this bustling metropolis with Moon Mexico City.- Experience the city: Navigate by neighborhood or by activity with color-coded maps or follow self-guided walks through Mexico City's most interesting neighborhoods- See the sights: Wander the ruins of Tenochtitlán at the Museo del Templo Mayor or visit Frida Kahlo's home. Explore the colorful Mercado de la Merced, admire Mexico City's sleek contemporary art museum, or venture into the past at the National Museum of Anthropology- Get a taste of the city: Feast on tacos al pastor from a street stand or indulge in the foodie scene with a multicourse meal of creative ceviche and mole negro dishes. Sip tequila and snack on botanas with locals at a cantina, belly up to the bar at a taqueria, or try Oaxacan-style chiles rellenos at a beloved family-owned spot- Bars and nightlife: Sip your way through a dazzling array of traditional dance halls, chic nightclubs, and hip mezcal hideaways- Trusted advice: Julie Meade, who lived in Mexico for 10 years, shares her cultural and artistic expertise on her beloved city- Itineraries and day trips: Head out to Cuernavaca, Puebla, or the ancient pyramid ruins of Teotihuacán or follow itineraries ranging from family-friendly tours to a lazy market Saturday, all accessible by bus, train, or public transit- Full-color photos and detailed maps so you can explore on your own, plus an easy-to-read foldout map to use on the go- Handy tools: Background information on the landscape, history, and culture of Mexico City, packaged in a book light enough to toss in your bag With Moon Mexico City's practical tips and local insight, you can experience the best of the city.Exploring more of Mexico? Check out Moon Oaxaca or Moon Yucatán Peninsula.

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With She Sheds Style, browse ideas, step-by-step projects, and decorating tips from a variety of creative “she shed” owners—then add your personal style to your own shed!It’s no secret that the she shed revolution is underway and gaining steam. What is a she shed? It’s simply any outbuilding that has been renovated, outfitted, redesigned, or otherwise reassigned into service as a refuge from the intense pace of modern life. Consider it a woman’s response to the “man cave” craze.Whether you already have that sought-after shed or are still in the dreaming phase, home and lifestyle expert Erika Kotite—author of the best-selling She Sheds: A Room of Your Own—will help you on your journey. Browse gorgeous photos of a variety of sheds and shed interiors, which range from modern and eclectic to rustic and shabby chic. Learn what architectural details play into a shed’s look and consider how these elements work with your preferred decor. Explore dozens of DIY projects: breathe new life into old furniture, install a track door, or craft a custom neon sign for your shed. Find hundreds of tips and ideas from some of the most creative she shed owners around the world. A variety of front entrance ideas provide inspiration for welcoming guests to your space. Ideas for re-purposing furniture abound, such as transforming an old door into a drop-down potting bench. You can even extend your shed’s impact beyond the walls with garden features like stepping stones and string lights. Most projects are shown with detailed, step-by-step photos so you can see exactly how the work is done. So get started and create your own she shed style!

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This ninth edition of Bradt's USA by Rail guidebook has been fully revised and expanded to take account of changes to Amtrak routes and services, plus the latest Amtrak and VIA Rail pass details, and features over 500 destinations, including Disney World, the Grand Canyon and Niagara Falls. With 25 long-distance train journeys across the United States and a further 12 in Canada, plus sightseeing highlights for 38 major cities, accommodation options from cheap to chic and everything you need to find your way around unfamiliar train stations, this book has all the practical information required to make the most of a rail pass. There are maps, route plans and photographs, up-to-date security and immigration information, plus vital tips for sightseeing, local transport and accommodation, as well as chapters on VIA Rail, the Rocky Mountaineer and other trains in Canada. The book also includes a history of North American railroads, current steam train operators, tourist railways and museums, as well as sound advice for the visitor from overseas. Hundreds of Internet contacts make it easy to plan and make reservations for any trip you desire. The grandeur of America's scenery - from its never-ending prairies, the Joshua trees of the Mojave Desert and the saw-toothed peaks of the Rocky Mountains to the pounding surf of the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans - is one of the continent's greatest attractions and there is no better way to enjoy it than by train. Written by an expert author who has travelled around 80,000 miles by train in North America in the last 25 years, Bradt's USA by Rail is the essential companion for a successful trip.

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In recent years the modern world has developed a brave new concept: 'soft power'. It is the power of friendly persuasion rather than command, and it invites nations to compete (as they did in the nineteenth century) to expand their 'sphere of influence' as brands in a global marketplace. In Bloody Foreigners and The Last Wolf, Robert Winder explored the way Britain was shaped first by migration, and then by hidden geographical factors. Now, in Soft Power he reveals the ways in which modern states are asserting themselves not through traditional realpolitik but through alternative means: business, language, culture, ideas, sport, education, music, even food - the texture and values of history and daily life. Moving from West to East, the book tells the story of soft power by exploring the varied ways in which it operates - from an American sheriff in Poland to an English garden in Ravello, a French vineyard in Australia, an Asian restaurant in Spain, a Chinese Friendship Hall in Sudan; the fact that fifty-eight modern heads of state were educated in Britain; the student exchange that took a teenage Deng Xiaoping to a small town on the Loire; the way that Japan could seduce the world with chic food and smart computer games. Now there may be a new twist in this Great game. With soft power's quiet ingredients - education, science, trade, cultural values - and a new emphasis on shared mutual interest, it may be the only force supple enough to tackle the challenges the future looks likely to pose - not least the slam-the-door reflexes pulling in the other direction.

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Gods in the Bazaar is a fascinating account of the printed images known in India as “calendar art” or “bazaar art,” the color-saturated, mass-produced pictures often used on calendars and in advertisements, featuring deities and other religious themes as well as nationalist leaders, alluring women, movie stars, chubby babies, and landscapes. Calendar art appears in all manner of contexts in India: in chic elite living rooms, middle-class kitchens, urban slums, village huts; hung on walls, stuck on scooters and computers, propped up on machines, affixed to dashboards, tucked into wallets and lockets. In this beautifully illustrated book, Kajri Jain examines the power that calendar art wields in Indian mass culture, arguing that its meanings derive as much from the production and circulation of the images as from their visual features. Jain draws on interviews with artists, printers, publishers, and consumers as well as analyses of the prints themselves to trace the economies—of art, commerce, religion, and desire—within which calendar images and ideas about them are formulated. For Jain, an analysis of the bazaar, or vernacular commercial arena, is crucial to understanding not only the calendar art that circulates within the bazaar but also India’s postcolonial modernity and the ways that its mass culture has developed in close connection with a religiously inflected nationalism. The bazaar is characterized by the coexistence of seemingly incompatible elements: bourgeois-liberal and neoliberal modernism on the one hand, and vernacular discourses and practices on the other. Jain argues that from the colonial era to the present, capitalist expansion has depended on the maintenance of these multiple coexisting realms: the sacred, the commercial, and the artistic; the official and the vernacular.

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"It imparts the type of educational information that all stages of jewelry collectors, as well as jewelry enthusiasts from students to dealers, will go back to again and again." — Beth Bernstein, Instore Mag "The Modern Guide to Antique Jewellery will make a collector of you yet" —Annie Davidson, JCK "...filled with fun factual titbits that are presented in a witty, conversational style, with lively narratives exploring each piece’s history." — Solitaire International "The ultimate go-to guide." — Retail Jeweller World The ultimate go-to guide, The Modern Guide to Antique Jewellery takes the reader on a tour through time, venturing from the 1700s all the way through to the early 20th century. From how to look chic while wearing jewellery that outdates you by 100 years, to how to spot and score the best pieces, this book is a must-read for all enthusiasts and collectors who have an affinity for the jewels of the past. Fun factual tidbits are presented in a witty, conversational style, and lively narratives explore each piece’s history. Part travelogue, featuring the most influential shops in New York, LA, London, Paris and Amsterdam; part educational guide, with anecdotes from dealers and experts; and part celebration of historical jewellery, this book is an invaluable and accessible reference. Topics covered include (but are not limited to): how to identify the most popular gemstones, materials, styles and collectible pieces in the market today, and how to select antique jewellery to complement your lifestyle. The Modern Guide to Antique Jewellery will reveal what to look for and where to locate rare finds, as well as how the experts score the pieces that decorate the fingers, ears, necks and wrists of the collector.

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A unique and engaging account of local urban decision-making within the globalizing world High Point, North Carolina, is known as the “Furniture Capital of the World.” Once a manufacturing stronghold, most of its furniture factories have closed over the past forty years, with production shipped off to low-wage countries. Yet as manufacturing left, the city tightened its hold on a biannual global exposition that serves as the world’s furniture fashion runway. At the High Point Market, visitors from more than one hundred nations traverse twelve million square feet of meticulous design. Downtown buildings—once courthouses, movie theaters, post offices, and gas stations—are now chic showroom spaces, even as many sit empty between each exposition.In Showroom City, John Joe Schlichtman applies an ethnographic lens to the global exposition’s relationship with High Point after it defeated rival Chicago in the 1960s and established itself as the world’s dominant furniture center. In recent decades, following trends in global finance, private equity firms were increasingly behind downtown High Point’s real estate transactions, coordinated by buyers far removed from the region. Then, in one massive transaction in 2011, a firm funded by Bain Capital purchased every major showroom building, and the majority of downtown real estate was under one owner. Showroom City is a story of exclusionary growth and unchecked development, of a city flailing to fill the void left by its dwindling factories. But beyond that Schlichtman engages the general lessons behind both High Point’s deindustrialization and its stunning reinvention as a furniture fashion, merchandising, and design node. With great nuance, he delves deeply to reveal how power operates locally and how citizens may affirm, exploit, influence, and resist the takeover of their community.

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TV chef Lorraine Pascale’s fabulous new prime-time BBC Two TV tie-in “How to be a Better Cook” Bestselling TV chef, Loraine is famous for her simple, delicious recipes to suit every occasion, and with this book she offers us even more: kitchen shortcuts to help you put gorgeous food on the table every time. Whether you’re rustling up a cosy romantic supper or a big family feast, Lorraine will share her secrets (from good knife technique to quick tricks for stand-out presentation). And Lorraine’s warmth and gentle encouragement comes across in every page and tip. She brings her sense of fun to the recipes and encourages everyone from beginner to expert alike to try new flavours and new methods and just get stuck in. Lorraine’s latest book ties in to her fourth BBC series, in which she helps people live up to a wide range of cookery challenges. Lorraine draws on cuisines from Italian to West Indian, caters for occasions from Hen parties to Bonfire Night, and even refreshes old favourites from Roast dinner to Summer Pudding. Impress guests with chic snacks like chrorizo and lemongrass puff pastry scrolls; add spice to midweek meals with quick stir fried chicken with toasted cashew nuts, ginger, basil and hoisin sauce; and pander to your friends’ and family’s sweet tooth with delectable Jamaican rum truffles and spiced apple tarte tatins. With so many smart yet simple dishes to make, this is the cookery book your shelf deserves. Beautifully presented and packed full of photos and useful tips, the TV Kitchen Goddess brings another must have guide to creating effort-free and delicious food; the ultimate companion for stylish cooks of all abilities.

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