Refreshing honesty and splendid wit, 27 Sep 2008
Quite apart from its sheer range and depth in tackling its subject, this book is really entertaining. It blows a welcome blast of fresh air through the fragrance business, exposing some of its frailties ('We *never* change our fragrance formulas' is the lie you hear most often) and gambolling in the glittering light of enthusiasm when reviewing favoured scents. The fragrance reviews are splendidly opinionated, but it's always clear that what's being praised is quality, coherence, balance, rather than 'niceness', so you're still free to exercise your own preference when you're shopping. I'm particularly impressed by the authors' recognition of the part appearance and presentation play in our enjoyment of fragrance, so they tell you when the packaging is the best thing about a scent, and when the opposite is true, too. They're also very good at pointing out that where fragrance is concerned, you very rarely 'get what you pay for', because some of the cheapest products on sale are very good, and some of the most expensive are not. Even if you fall into the least favoured category of person - someone who wears fragrance because they're frightened of smelling of themselves, rather than because they actually like what they're wearing - you'll find constructive suggestions here, with splendidly direct warnings about pitfalls you might want to avoid. A splendid read, and a reliable guide - which will need updating with new editions every few years!

A trip down memory lane.., 18 Sep 2008
I spent last night poring over this book with my friends, male and female, looking up the various scents we have proudly worn then laughing and reminiscing while reading out the dead-on reviews. E.g. Poison 'The fragrance that everybody loves to hate...a must for every collector but please don't wear it to dinner'! It's warm, witty and wise - unlike anything else I have read on the subject.

A must have for handbags and manbags alike!, 09 Sep 2008
A danger to credit cards everywhere! This book is so evocative - descriptions of the good perfumes make you want to rush out and buy them without even smelling them first and reviews of the bad ones are screamingly funny. It's absolutely beautiful and a perfect present - also a brilliant way to drop a hint to your boyfriend, either because you want one of the scents or if you don't like his.

Refreshing honesty and splendid wit, 27 Sep 2008
Quite apart from its sheer range and depth in tackling its subject, this book is really entertaining. It blows a welcome blast of fresh air through the fragrance business, exposing some of its frailties ('We *never* change our fragrance formulas' is the lie you hear most often) and gambolling in the glittering light of enthusiasm when reviewing favoured scents. The fragrance reviews are splendidly opinionated, but it's always clear that what's being praised is quality, coherence, balance, rather than 'niceness', so you're still free to exercise your own preference when you're shopping. I'm particularly impressed by the authors' recognition of the part appearance and presentation play in our enjoyment of fragrance, so they tell you when the packaging is the best thing about a scent, and when the opposite is true, too. They're also very good at pointing out that where fragrance is concerned, you very rarely 'get what you pay for', because some of the cheapest products on sale are very good, and some of the most expensive are not. Even if you fall into the least favoured category of person - someone who wears fragrance because they're frightened of smelling of themselves, rather than because they actually like what they're wearing - you'll find constructive suggestions here, with splendidly direct warnings about pitfalls you might want to avoid. A splendid read, and a reliable guide - which will need updating with new editions every few years!

A trip down memory lane.., 18 Sep 2008
I spent last night poring over this book with my friends, male and female, looking up the various scents we have proudly worn then laughing and reminiscing while reading out the dead-on reviews. E.g. Poison 'The fragrance that everybody loves to hate...a must for every collector but please don't wear it to dinner'! It's warm, witty and wise - unlike anything else I have read on the subject.

A must have for handbags and manbags alike!, 09 Sep 2008
A danger to credit cards everywhere! This book is so evocative - descriptions of the good perfumes make you want to rush out and buy them without even smelling them first and reviews of the bad ones are screamingly funny. It's absolutely beautiful and a perfect present - also a brilliant way to drop a hint to your boyfriend, either because you want one of the scents or if you don't like his.

An indispensible guide for level 2 Beauty Therapy, 14 Sep 2008
As a Lecturer of Beauty Therapy I have found this book indispensible as a reference both for planning lessons and for my students for City and Guilds NVQ2 Beauty Therapy. I have met Lorraine Nordmann (an External Verifier for City and Guilds) whilst I was assessing students; and found her to be both exacting and knowledgeable. This book matches the teaching standards perfectly and so is ideal for students and Lecturers alike. There are clear learning objectives in all sections; and the book is easy for students to read too.

qualified beauty therapist/nail technician/makeup artist, 12 Nov 2006
as a professional i must say that this book is fantastic!

this is a must for all beauty therapy students, colour pictures really help too

this book really does cover everything from skin disorders to nail extensions

i will definately recommend this book

Beauty therapy the Foundations NVQ Level 2, 11 Jan 2005
great book a must for anyone in the industry.

No wonder my college lecturers use it as a "beauty bible"!!!, 30 Jan 2002
Clear, easy to digest guidance on all aspects of beauty procedures. Beautifully illustrated, excellent step-by-step photography. Covers everything from making appointments to detailed anatomy. Can't wait for Level 3 !!!

Essential to get you through your NVQ 2, 22 Feb 2001
This book contains all the knowledge and information you need in order to pass your NVQ 2 Beauty Therapy successfully. In my opinion it is the most concise and well illustrated of the NVQ Beauty Therapy books.

I especially liked the simple step by step diagrams which helped with the more complicated areas of the syllabus. The content covers the syllbus fully but without going into too much detail on areas where in depth knowledge is not required.

I also liked the real photos featured which show a true to life illustration of what cn be achieved by beauty therapy treatments, this is also inspiring as it shows you what you the outcomes of the skill you will have learnt by the end of the course.

This book provides excellent revision material (there are short self assessments at the end of each section) and will act as an invaulable reference guide during and after you have finished your beauty therapy NVQ 2.

Refreshing honesty and splendid wit, 27 Sep 2008
Quite apart from its sheer range and depth in tackling its subject, this book is really entertaining. It blows a welcome blast of fresh air through the fragrance business, exposing some of its frailties ('We *never* change our fragrance formulas' is the lie you hear most often) and gambolling in the glittering light of enthusiasm when reviewing favoured scents. The fragrance reviews are splendidly opinionated, but it's always clear that what's being praised is quality, coherence, balance, rather than 'niceness', so you're still free to exercise your own preference when you're shopping. I'm particularly impressed by the authors' recognition of the part appearance and presentation play in our enjoyment of fragrance, so they tell you when the packaging is the best thing about a scent, and when the opposite is true, too. They're also very good at pointing out that where fragrance is concerned, you very rarely 'get what you pay for', because some of the cheapest products on sale are very good, and some of the most expensive are not. Even if you fall into the least favoured category of person - someone who wears fragrance because they're frightened of smelling of themselves, rather than because they actually like what they're wearing - you'll find constructive suggestions here, with splendidly direct warnings about pitfalls you might want to avoid. A splendid read, and a reliable guide - which will need updating with new editions every few years!

A trip down memory lane.., 18 Sep 2008
I spent last night poring over this book with my friends, male and female, looking up the various scents we have proudly worn then laughing and reminiscing while reading out the dead-on reviews. E.g. Poison 'The fragrance that everybody loves to hate...a must for every collector but please don't wear it to dinner'! It's warm, witty and wise - unlike anything else I have read on the subject.

A must have for handbags and manbags alike!, 09 Sep 2008
A danger to credit cards everywhere! This book is so evocative - descriptions of the good perfumes make you want to rush out and buy them without even smelling them first and reviews of the bad ones are screamingly funny. It's absolutely beautiful and a perfect present - also a brilliant way to drop a hint to your boyfriend, either because you want one of the scents or if you don't like his.

An indispensible guide for level 2 Beauty Therapy, 14 Sep 2008
As a Lecturer of Beauty Therapy I have found this book indispensible as a reference both for planning lessons and for my students for City and Guilds NVQ2 Beauty Therapy. I have met Lorraine Nordmann (an External Verifier for City and Guilds) whilst I was assessing students; and found her to be both exacting and knowledgeable. This book matches the teaching standards perfectly and so is ideal for students and Lecturers alike. There are clear learning objectives in all sections; and the book is easy for students to read too.

qualified beauty therapist/nail technician/makeup artist, 12 Nov 2006
as a professional i must say that this book is fantastic!

this is a must for all beauty therapy students, colour pictures really help too

this book really does cover everything from skin disorders to nail extensions

i will definately recommend this book

Beauty therapy the Foundations NVQ Level 2, 11 Jan 2005
great book a must for anyone in the industry.

No wonder my college lecturers use it as a "beauty bible"!!!, 30 Jan 2002
Clear, easy to digest guidance on all aspects of beauty procedures. Beautifully illustrated, excellent step-by-step photography. Covers everything from making appointments to detailed anatomy. Can't wait for Level 3 !!!

Essential to get you through your NVQ 2, 22 Feb 2001
This book contains all the knowledge and information you need in order to pass your NVQ 2 Beauty Therapy successfully. In my opinion it is the most concise and well illustrated of the NVQ Beauty Therapy books.

I especially liked the simple step by step diagrams which helped with the more complicated areas of the syllabus. The content covers the syllbus fully but without going into too much detail on areas where in depth knowledge is not required.

I also liked the real photos featured which show a true to life illustration of what cn be achieved by beauty therapy treatments, this is also inspiring as it shows you what you the outcomes of the skill you will have learnt by the end of the course.

This book provides excellent revision material (there are short self assessments at the end of each section) and will act as an invaulable reference guide during and after you have finished your beauty therapy NVQ 2.

Brilliant, 04 Aug 2008
This book is fantastic, i couldn't put it down once I'd started to read it, it's got everything you need to know about "making-up" your eyes, this is how some of the contents read:
HOW TO USE THIS BOOK
THE BASICS:
eyebrows
eyelids
shaping your eyes with shadows
eyeliners
eyelashes
false eyelashes
taking it off
EVERYDAY
FLIRTATIOUS
FUNKY
GLAMOROUS
INSPIRED
the instructions on how to do each style are well thought out and seem really easy to do with pictures and ingredients list on what and how to do it, it tells you what brushes to use and how to use them and its got loads of tips in it and the pictures are fab, i cant wait to start using it.......

Very Helpfull, 21 Jul 2008
The condition was perfect. The content was very helpfull. Make up looks which everyone can do just by having this book.

Refreshing honesty and splendid wit, 27 Sep 2008
Quite apart from its sheer range and depth in tackling its subject, this book is really entertaining. It blows a welcome blast of fresh air through the fragrance business, exposing some of its frailties ('We *never* change our fragrance formulas' is the lie you hear most often) and gambolling in the glittering light of enthusiasm when reviewing favoured scents. The fragrance reviews are splendidly opinionated, but it's always clear that what's being praised is quality, coherence, balance, rather than 'niceness', so you're still free to exercise your own preference when you're shopping. I'm particularly impressed by the authors' recognition of the part appearance and presentation play in our enjoyment of fragrance, so they tell you when the packaging is the best thing about a scent, and when the opposite is true, too. They're also very good at pointing out that where fragrance is concerned, you very rarely 'get what you pay for', because some of the cheapest products on sale are very good, and some of the most expensive are not. Even if you fall into the least favoured category of person - someone who wears fragrance because they're frightened of smelling of themselves, rather than because they actually like what they're wearing - you'll find constructive suggestions here, with splendidly direct warnings about pitfalls you might want to avoid. A splendid read, and a reliable guide - which will need updating with new editions every few years!

A trip down memory lane.., 18 Sep 2008
I spent last night poring over this book with my friends, male and female, looking up the various scents we have proudly worn then laughing and reminiscing while reading out the dead-on reviews. E.g. Poison 'The fragrance that everybody loves to hate...a must for every collector but please don't wear it to dinner'! It's warm, witty and wise - unlike anything else I have read on the subject.

A must have for handbags and manbags alike!, 09 Sep 2008
A danger to credit cards everywhere! This book is so evocative - descriptions of the good perfumes make you want to rush out and buy them without even smelling them first and reviews of the bad ones are screamingly funny. It's absolutely beautiful and a perfect present - also a brilliant way to drop a hint to your boyfriend, either because you want one of the scents or if you don't like his.

An indispensible guide for level 2 Beauty Therapy, 14 Sep 2008
As a Lecturer of Beauty Therapy I have found this book indispensible as a reference both for planning lessons and for my students for City and Guilds NVQ2 Beauty Therapy. I have met Lorraine Nordmann (an External Verifier for City and Guilds) whilst I was assessing students; and found her to be both exacting and knowledgeable. This book matches the teaching standards perfectly and so is ideal for students and Lecturers alike. There are clear learning objectives in all sections; and the book is easy for students to read too.

qualified beauty therapist/nail technician/makeup artist, 12 Nov 2006
as a professional i must say that this book is fantastic!

this is a must for all beauty therapy students, colour pictures really help too

this book really does cover everything from skin disorders to nail extensions

i will definately recommend this book

Beauty therapy the Foundations NVQ Level 2, 11 Jan 2005
great book a must for anyone in the industry.

No wonder my college lecturers use it as a "beauty bible"!!!, 30 Jan 2002
Clear, easy to digest guidance on all aspects of beauty procedures. Beautifully illustrated, excellent step-by-step photography. Covers everything from making appointments to detailed anatomy. Can't wait for Level 3 !!!

Essential to get you through your NVQ 2, 22 Feb 2001
This book contains all the knowledge and information you need in order to pass your NVQ 2 Beauty Therapy successfully. In my opinion it is the most concise and well illustrated of the NVQ Beauty Therapy books.

I especially liked the simple step by step diagrams which helped with the more complicated areas of the syllabus. The content covers the syllbus fully but without going into too much detail on areas where in depth knowledge is not required.

I also liked the real photos featured which show a true to life illustration of what cn be achieved by beauty therapy treatments, this is also inspiring as it shows you what you the outcomes of the skill you will have learnt by the end of the course.

This book provides excellent revision material (there are short self assessments at the end of each section) and will act as an invaulable reference guide during and after you have finished your beauty therapy NVQ 2.

Brilliant, 04 Aug 2008
This book is fantastic, i couldn't put it down once I'd started to read it, it's got everything you need to know about "making-up" your eyes, this is how some of the contents read:
HOW TO USE THIS BOOK
THE BASICS:
eyebrows
eyelids
shaping your eyes with shadows
eyeliners
eyelashes
false eyelashes
taking it off
EVERYDAY
FLIRTATIOUS
FUNKY
GLAMOROUS
INSPIRED
the instructions on how to do each style are well thought out and seem really easy to do with pictures and ingredients list on what and how to do it, it tells you what brushes to use and how to use them and its got loads of tips in it and the pictures are fab, i cant wait to start using it.......

Very Helpfull, 21 Jul 2008
The condition was perfect. The content was very helpfull. Make up looks which everyone can do just by having this book.

8 out of 10 ITEC A&P students preferred it, 17 Jun 2008
I teach the ITEC A&P qualification and know only too well how difficult it is to find a text book written at the level required to support the course and syllabus (A level).

I have used the Louise Tucker book for the last four years but it lacks decent illustrations and contains a shocking number of mistakes, even after a trillion editions - its biggest critism.

However I aim to use this book for the next academic year, after I discovered it too late for this year's students. It is written in a simple easy-to-read manner with plenty of activities such as labelling diagrams, which may seem a bit 'play school' to some, but are a proven technique to successful learning and retention of information. It may not fully support the ITEC syllabus but neither does any other text book.

A useful book for anyone studying ITEC or wishing to self-educate on the workings of the human body.

Great book - a good foundation for your A&P library, 31 Mar 2007
I am studying Aromatherapy and Massage and found this book helped me get through the A&P modules successfully. It is clear, concise with very helpful diagrams and 'colouring' workpages to reinforce information you have just read. I found it invaluable as a reference point and it made it much easier to approach other more 'technical' A&P textbooks as it gives you a basic but solid understanding. Well worth adding to the library, particularly if you are studying holistic therapies.

A&P guide, 31 Jan 2007
This is a good book for Holistic therapists. I use it in conjunction with Louise Tucker: An Intor to A & P and Ross & Wilson 10th Ed A&P and Tortora "the Bible" on A & P with online interactive flash test etc. Half way through the course and have read every book so far and use them all in conjunction in order to get the best overview of A & P as some aspects are not covered in as much detail in Francesca Gould's book as others. Worth buying to add to the library!

Not for the mature student, 12 Jan 2007
I am a mature student and was advised that I would have to have this book for my course of study. Whilst the book appears to be fairly correct when compared to other more professional text books, I'm afraid to say I found the presentation and style was a bit too 'babyish'. I would consider myself to be an intelligent woman capable of learning from a book designed for adult study, but unfortunately felt like I was studying from a book designed more for children than an adult. In all I would have to say it's not the book I would chose, given the choice again. The book is ok but better suited for school children.

Another Great Book!, 30 Jan 2006
Extremely glad I purchased this book from Amazon. I am studying beauty therapy and was not looking forward to the A&P part, a lot of books that I have looked at buying were very long winded, technical and make you want to put them down! This is simple, clear, and tells you the basic facts without too much detail, but I feel that it covers the essentials. There are some parts of the book that offer you "revision" by crosswords and questions, which I haven't done, but a good of way of learning if it works for you! Very good author and very good book!

Refreshing honesty and splendid wit, 27 Sep 2008
Quite apart from its sheer range and depth in tackling its subject, this book is really entertaining. It blows a welcome blast of fresh air through the fragrance business, exposing some of its frailties ('We *never* change our fragrance formulas' is the lie you hear most often) and gambolling in the glittering light of enthusiasm when reviewing favoured scents. The fragrance reviews are splendidly opinionated, but it's always clear that what's being praised is quality, coherence, balance, rather than 'niceness', so you're still free to exercise your own preference when you're shopping. I'm particularly impressed by the authors' recognition of the part appearance and presentation play in our enjoyment of fragrance, so they tell you when the packaging is the best thing about a scent, and when the opposite is true, too. They're also very good at pointing out that where fragrance is concerned, you very rarely 'get what you pay for', because some of the cheapest products on sale are very good, and some of the most expensive are not. Even if you fall into the least favoured category of person - someone who wears fragrance because they're frightened of smelling of themselves, rather than because they actually like what they're wearing - you'll find constructive suggestions here, with splendidly direct warnings about pitfalls you might want to avoid. A splendid read, and a reliable guide - which will need updating with new editions every few years!

A trip down memory lane.., 18 Sep 2008
I spent last night poring over this book with my friends, male and female, looking up the various scents we have proudly worn then laughing and reminiscing while reading out the dead-on reviews. E.g. Poison 'The fragrance that everybody loves to hate...a must for every collector but please don't wear it to dinner'! It's warm, witty and wise - unlike anything else I have read on the subject.

A must have for handbags and manbags alike!, 09 Sep 2008
A danger to credit cards everywhere! This book is so evocative - descriptions of the good perfumes make you want to rush out and buy them without even smelling them first and reviews of the bad ones are screamingly funny. It's absolutely beautiful and a perfect present - also a brilliant way to drop a hint to your boyfriend, either because you want one of the scents or if you don't like his.

An indispensible guide for level 2 Beauty Therapy, 14 Sep 2008
As a Lecturer of Beauty Therapy I have found this book indispensible as a reference both for planning lessons and for my students for City and Guilds NVQ2 Beauty Therapy. I have met Lorraine Nordmann (an External Verifier for City and Guilds) whilst I was assessing students; and found her to be both exacting and knowledgeable. This book matches the teaching standards perfectly and so is ideal for students and Lecturers alike. There are clear learning objectives in all sections; and the book is easy for students to read too.

qualified beauty therapist/nail technician/makeup artist, 12 Nov 2006
as a professional i must say that this book is fantastic!

this is a must for all beauty therapy students, colour pictures really help too

this book really does cover everything from skin disorders to nail extensions

i will definately recommend this book

Beauty therapy the Foundations NVQ Level 2, 11 Jan 2005
great book a must for anyone in the industry.

No wonder my college lecturers use it as a "beauty bible"!!!, 30 Jan 2002
Clear, easy to digest guidance on all aspects of beauty procedures. Beautifully illustrated, excellent step-by-step photography. Covers everything from making appointments to detailed anatomy. Can't wait for Level 3 !!!

Essential to get you through your NVQ 2, 22 Feb 2001
This book contains all the knowledge and information you need in order to pass your NVQ 2 Beauty Therapy successfully. In my opinion it is the most concise and well illustrated of the NVQ Beauty Therapy books.

I especially liked the simple step by step diagrams which helped with the more complicated areas of the syllabus. The content covers the syllbus fully but without going into too much detail on areas where in depth knowledge is not required.

I also liked the real photos featured which show a true to life illustration of what cn be achieved by beauty therapy treatments, this is also inspiring as it shows you what you the outcomes of the skill you will have learnt by the end of the course.

This book provides excellent revision material (there are short self assessments at the end of each section) and will act as an invaulable reference guide during and after you have finished your beauty therapy NVQ 2.

Brilliant, 04 Aug 2008
This book is fantastic, i couldn't put it down once I'd started to read it, it's got everything you need to know about "making-up" your eyes, this is how some of the contents read:
HOW TO USE THIS BOOK
THE BASICS:
eyebrows
eyelids
shaping your eyes with shadows
eyeliners
eyelashes
false eyelashes
taking it off
EVERYDAY
FLIRTATIOUS
FUNKY
GLAMOROUS
INSPIRED
the instructions on how to do each style are well thought out and seem really easy to do with pictures and ingredients list on what and how to do it, it tells you what brushes to use and how to use them and its got loads of tips in it and the pictures are fab, i cant wait to start using it.......

Very Helpfull, 21 Jul 2008
The condition was perfect. The content was very helpfull. Make up looks which everyone can do just by having this book.

8 out of 10 ITEC A&P students preferred it, 17 Jun 2008
I teach the ITEC A&P qualification and know only too well how difficult it is to find a text book written at the level required to support the course and syllabus (A level).

I have used the Louise Tucker book for the last four years but it lacks decent illustrations and contains a shocking number of mistakes, even after a trillion editions - its biggest critism.

However I aim to use this book for the next academic year, after I discovered it too late for this year's students. It is written in a simple easy-to-read manner with plenty of activities such as labelling diagrams, which may seem a bit 'play school' to some, but are a proven technique to successful learning and retention of information. It may not fully support the ITEC syllabus but neither does any other text book.

A useful book for anyone studying ITEC or wishing to self-educate on the workings of the human body.

Great book - a good foundation for your A&P library, 31 Mar 2007
I am studying Aromatherapy and Massage and found this book helped me get through the A&P modules successfully. It is clear, concise with very helpful diagrams and 'colouring' workpages to reinforce information you have just read. I found it invaluable as a reference point and it made it much easier to approach other more 'technical' A&P textbooks as it gives you a basic but solid understanding. Well worth adding to the library, particularly if you are studying holistic therapies.

A&P guide, 31 Jan 2007
This is a good book for Holistic therapists. I use it in conjunction with Louise Tucker: An Intor to A & P and Ross & Wilson 10th Ed A&P and Tortora "the Bible" on A & P with online interactive flash test etc. Half way through the course and have read every book so far and use them all in conjunction in order to get the best overview of A & P as some aspects are not covered in as much detail in Francesca Gould's book as others. Worth buying to add to the library!

Not for the mature student, 12 Jan 2007
I am a mature student and was advised that I would have to have this book for my course of study. Whilst the book appears to be fairly correct when compared to other more professional text books, I'm afraid to say I found the presentation and style was a bit too 'babyish'. I would consider myself to be an intelligent woman capable of learning from a book designed for adult study, but unfortunately felt like I was studying from a book designed more for children than an adult. In all I would have to say it's not the book I would chose, given the choice again. The book is ok but better suited for school children.

Another Great Book!, 30 Jan 2006
Extremely glad I purchased this book from Amazon. I am studying beauty therapy and was not looking forward to the A&P part, a lot of books that I have looked at buying were very long winded, technical and make you want to put them down! This is simple, clear, and tells you the basic facts without too much detail, but I feel that it covers the essentials. There are some parts of the book that offer you "revision" by crosswords and questions, which I haven't done, but a good of way of learning if it works for you! Very good author and very good book!

Great on TV but the book?, 01 Sep 2008
Feel Fab at 50

As an Image professional I have always loved Gok since he jumped on to our TV screens a couple of years ago. He epitomises what we, as professionals, should be doing with our clients. I have continued to love his approach ever since. While the text in his book was sensible and uplifting, strangely enough, I found the choice of clothing incomprehensible for the most part. Instead of flattering his models, who are all gorgeous (and mostly voluptuous), they look uncomfortable and too tight with staining seams, incorrect fabric choices and so on. The Gok on TV would never make these fundamental errors and the upshot is that his girls look bigger than they really are. A conundrum!

Sorry Gok, I like you, but, 29 Dec 2007
The book does not help. The same model poses for pear shape and hourglass??? (same for the other models)
Why not take Trinny and Susannah's approach and show exactly what kind of clothing each shape needs instead of showing us ball gowns? Why not use the women from the series?



Gok Wan: Making the world a better place for ladies everywhere!, 12 Jul 2007
I am not usually a fan of fashion and stylist programmes, but I tuned into Gok's every week. It hit just the right tone, about celebrating what real women look like and making the best of what you already had rather than needing to change.
This book has the same loveable and helpful tone as the show, and offers a supportive mantra to learn to love what you have and make the best of it. The only real confusing element is if you're not sure which of the body types describes you best, eg if you're top heavy but also uncomfortable about your belly.
Gok is offering a valuable service to all women uncomfortable with their shapes and this book offers helpful advice, aswell as feeling like a confidante to remind you that yes, you are beautiful. Of course, I'm biased because I met Gok at his book signing and am absolutely in love with the man, but I really do recommend this book as an encouragement to all women who want to learn how to be comfortable in their own skin just the way it is.

very helpful, 30 Jun 2007
Five stars because although the book is not perfect I applaud the kindness of the author. An interesting aspect is that Wan himself tells us that he was overweight. Quite obviously he is not now - yet this is emphatically not a diet book. What seems to have happened is that the author styled himself to feel better about himself and the weightloss followed in due course when he was happier about himself. This book is so brilliant because it starts with what's right about you rather than with what is wrong, working with your self-consciousness rather than totally disregarding it. All teenage girls should be given this book and the author should be given a knighthood. Read in conjunction with watching the TV show.

My only criticisms: perhaps the style is a little cloying; but I'll live with that since I know he is trying to put the reader at their ease. Also sometimes it's hard to know exactly what shape you are: e.g. am I a pear shape, a bird with a big bum or petite? Maybe some comparative measurements would be useful. Worst thing would be to accidentally go for the wrong shape. Really I'm a combination of all three so how to work with that? There is some limited advice but more would be good.

You don't have to loose weight or be rich to look great!, 17 Jun 2007
The best thing about this book is its overall message: you do not necessarily have to loose weight or be rich to look your very best on a day-to-day basis! Gok's approach is 'drink more water, eat more fruit&veg and take good care of yourself'- no diet fads or expensive plastic surgery (see '10 years younger'!) needed. The book focuses on different types of body shape (big bottom, big belly, no curves, too skinny etc.) and provides LOTS of helpful advice as to what to wear and (probably even more important) what not. The last chapters focus on underwear and general beauty routine. All of this is very helpful and the writing style is very similar to the tv show, very positive and encouraging, all about flaunting your best bits and keeping quiet about the rest. I can honestly say that I have never read such a positive book about this subject: Gok does not preach or patronize, but seems to really want to bring the best out in everybody.
The only shortcoming is a lack of photographs. It would have been nice to have more pictures accompanying the advice given in the text. But apart from that: absolutely recommendable!!!

Refreshing honesty and splendid wit, 27 Sep 2008
Quite apart from its sheer range and depth in tackling its subject, this book is really entertaining. It blows a welcome blast of fresh air through the fragrance business, exposing some of its frailties ('We *never* change our fragrance formulas' is the lie you hear most often) and gambolling in the glittering light of enthusiasm when reviewing favoured scents. The fragrance reviews are splendidly opinionated, but it's always clear that what's being praised is quality, coherence, balance, rather than 'niceness', so you're still free to exercise your own preference when you're shopping. I'm particularly impressed by the authors' recognition of the part appearance and presentation play in our enjoyment of fragrance, so they tell you when the packaging is the best thing about a scent, and when the opposite is true, too. They're also very good at pointing out that where fragrance is concerned, you very rarely 'get what you pay for', because some of the cheapest products on sale are very good, and some of the most expensive are not. Even if you fall into the least favoured category of person - someone who wears fragrance because they're frightened of smelling of themselves, rather than because they actually like what they're wearing - you'll find constructive suggestions here, with splendidly direct warnings about pitfalls you might want to avoid. A splendid read, and a reliable guide - which will need updating with new editions every few years!

A trip down memory lane.., 18 Sep 2008
I spent last night poring over this book with my friends, male and female, looking up the various scents we have proudly worn then laughing and reminiscing while reading out the dead-on reviews. E.g. Poison 'The fragrance that everybody loves to hate...a must for every collector but please don't wear it to dinner'! It's warm, witty and wise - unlike anything else I have read on the subject.

A must have for handbags and manbags alike!, 09 Sep 2008
A danger to credit cards everywhere! This book is so evocative - descriptions of the good perfumes make you want to rush out and buy them without even smelling them first and reviews of the bad ones are screamingly funny. It's absolutely beautiful and a perfect present - also a brilliant way to drop a hint to your boyfriend, either because you want one of the scents or if you don't like his.

An indispensible guide for level 2 Beauty Therapy, 14 Sep 2008
As a Lecturer of Beauty Therapy I have found this book indispensible as a reference both for planning lessons and for my students for City and Guilds NVQ2 Beauty Therapy. I have met Lorraine Nordmann (an External Verifier for City and Guilds) whilst I was assessing students; and found her to be both exacting and knowledgeable. This book matches the teaching standards perfectly and so is ideal for students and Lecturers alike. There are clear learning objectives in all sections; and the book is easy for students to read too.

qualified beauty therapist/nail technician/makeup artist, 12 Nov 2006
as a professional i must say that this book is fantastic!

this is a must for all beauty therapy students, colour pictures really help too

this book really does cover everything from skin disorders to nail extensions

i will definately recommend this book

Beauty therapy the Foundations NVQ Level 2, 11 Jan 2005
great book a must for anyone in the industry.

No wonder my college lecturers use it as a "beauty bible"!!!, 30 Jan 2002
Clear, easy to digest guidance on all aspects of beauty procedures. Beautifully illustrated, excellent step-by-step photography. Covers everything from making appointments to detailed anatomy. Can't wait for Level 3 !!!

Essential to get you through your NVQ 2, 22 Feb 2001
This book contains all the knowledge and information you need in order to pass your NVQ 2 Beauty Therapy successfully. In my opinion it is the most concise and well illustrated of the NVQ Beauty Therapy books.

I especially liked the simple step by step diagrams which helped with the more complicated areas of the syllabus. The content covers the syllbus fully but without going into too much detail on areas where in depth knowledge is not required.

I also liked the real photos featured which show a true to life illustration of what cn be achieved by beauty therapy treatments, this is also inspiring as it shows you what you the outcomes of the skill you will have learnt by the end of the course.

This book provides excellent revision material (there are short self assessments at the end of each section) and will act as an invaulable reference guide during and after you have finished your beauty therapy NVQ 2.

Brilliant, 04 Aug 2008
This book is fantastic, i couldn't put it down once I'd started to read it, it's got everything you need to know about "making-up" your eyes, this is how some of the contents read:
HOW TO USE THIS BOOK
THE BASICS:
eyebrows
eyelids
shaping your eyes with shadows
eyeliners
eyelashes
false eyelashes
taking it off
EVERYDAY
FLIRTATIOUS
FUNKY
GLAMOROUS
INSPIRED
the instructions on how to do each style are well thought out and seem really easy to do with pictures and ingredients list on what and how to do it, it tells you what brushes to use and how to use them and its got loads of tips in it and the pictures are fab, i cant wait to start using it.......

Very Helpfull, 21 Jul 2008
The condition was perfect. The content was very helpfull. Make up looks which everyone can do just by having this book.

8 out of 10 ITEC A&P students preferred it, 17 Jun 2008
I teach the ITEC A&P qualification and know only too well how difficult it is to find a text book written at the level required to support the course and syllabus (A level).

I have used the Louise Tucker book for the last four years but it lacks decent illustrations and contains a shocking number of mistakes, even after a trillion editions - its biggest critism.

However I aim to use this book for the next academic year, after I discovered it too late for this year's students. It is written in a simple easy-to-read manner with plenty of activities such as labelling diagrams, which may seem a bit 'play school' to some, but are a proven technique to successful learning and retention of information. It may not fully support the ITEC syllabus but neither does any other text book.

A useful book for anyone studying ITEC or wishing to self-educate on the workings of the human body.

Great book - a good foundation for your A&P library, 31 Mar 2007
I am studying Aromatherapy and Massage and found this book helped me get through the A&P modules successfully. It is clear, concise with very helpful diagrams and 'colouring' workpages to reinforce information you have just read. I found it invaluable as a reference point and it made it much easier to approach other more 'technical' A&P textbooks as it gives you a basic but solid understanding. Well worth adding to the library, particularly if you are studying holistic therapies.

A&P guide, 31 Jan 2007
This is a good book for Holistic therapists. I use it in conjunction with Louise Tucker: An Intor to A & P and Ross & Wilson 10th Ed A&P and Tortora "the Bible" on A & P with online interactive flash test etc. Half way through the course and have read every book so far and use them all in conjunction in order to get the best overview of A & P as some aspects are not covered in as much detail in Francesca Gould's book as others. Worth buying to add to the library!

Not for the mature student, 12 Jan 2007
I am a mature student and was advised that I would have to have this book for my course of study. Whilst the book appears to be fairly correct when compared to other more professional text books, I'm afraid to say I found the presentation and style was a bit too 'babyish'. I would consider myself to be an intelligent woman capable of learning from a book designed for adult study, but unfortunately felt like I was studying from a book designed more for children than an adult. In all I would have to say it's not the book I would chose, given the choice again. The book is ok but better suited for school children.

Another Great Book!, 30 Jan 2006
Extremely glad I purchased this book from Amazon. I am studying beauty therapy and was not looking forward to the A&P part, a lot of books that I have looked at buying were very long winded, technical and make you want to put them down! This is simple, clear, and tells you the basic facts without too much detail, but I feel that it covers the essentials. There are some parts of the book that offer you "revision" by crosswords and questions, which I haven't done, but a good of way of learning if it works for you! Very good author and very good book!

Great on TV but the book?, 01 Sep 2008
Feel Fab at 50

As an Image professional I have always loved Gok since he jumped on to our TV screens a couple of years ago. He epitomises what we, as professionals, should be doing with our clients. I have continued to love his approach ever since. While the text in his book was sensible and uplifting, strangely enough, I found the choice of clothing incomprehensible for the most part. Instead of flattering his models, who are all gorgeous (and mostly voluptuous), they look uncomfortable and too tight with staining seams, incorrect fabric choices and so on. The Gok on TV would never make these fundamental errors and the upshot is that his girls look bigger than they really are. A conundrum!

Sorry Gok, I like you, but, 29 Dec 2007
The book does not help. The same model poses for pear shape and hourglass??? (same for the other models)
Why not take Trinny and Susannah's approach and show exactly what kind of clothing each shape needs instead of showing us ball gowns? Why not use the women from the series?



Gok Wan: Making the world a better place for ladies everywhere!, 12 Jul 2007
I am not usually a fan of fashion and stylist programmes, but I tuned into Gok's every week. It hit just the right tone, about celebrating what real women look like and making the best of what you already had rather than needing to change.
This book has the same loveable and helpful tone as the show, and offers a supportive mantra to learn to love what you have and make the best of it. The only real confusing element is if you're not sure which of the body types describes you best, eg if you're top heavy but also uncomfortable about your belly.
Gok is offering a valuable service to all women uncomfortable with their shapes and this book offers helpful advice, aswell as feeling like a confidante to remind you that yes, you are beautiful. Of course, I'm biased because I met Gok at his book signing and am absolutely in love with the man, but I really do recommend this book as an encouragement to all women who want to learn how to be comfortable in their own skin just the way it is.

very helpful, 30 Jun 2007
Five stars because although the book is not perfect I applaud the kindness of the author. An interesting aspect is that Wan himself tells us that he was overweight. Quite obviously he is not now - yet this is emphatically not a diet book. What seems to have happened is that the author styled himself to feel better about himself and the weightloss followed in due course when he was happier about himself. This book is so brilliant because it starts with what's right about you rather than with what is wrong, working with your self-consciousness rather than totally disregarding it. All teenage girls should be given this book and the author should be given a knighthood. Read in conjunction with watching the TV show.

My only criticisms: perhaps the style is a little cloying; but I'll live with that since I know he is trying to put the reader at their ease. Also sometimes it's hard to know exactly what shape you are: e.g. am I a pear shape, a bird with a big bum or petite? Maybe some comparative measurements would be useful. Worst thing would be to accidentally go for the wrong shape. Really I'm a combination of all three so how to work with that? There is some limited advice but more would be good.

You don't have to loose weight or be rich to look great!, 17 Jun 2007
The best thing about this book is its overall message: you do not necessarily have to loose weight or be rich to look your very best on a day-to-day basis! Gok's approach is 'drink more water, eat more fruit&veg and take good care of yourself'- no diet fads or expensive plastic surgery (see '10 years younger'!) needed. The book focuses on different types of body shape (big bottom, big belly, no curves, too skinny etc.) and provides LOTS of helpful advice as to what to wear and (probably even more important) what not. The last chapters focus on underwear and general beauty routine. All of this is very helpful and the writing style is very similar to the tv show, very positive and encouraging, all about flaunting your best bits and keeping quiet about the rest. I can honestly say that I have never read such a positive book about this subject: Gok does not preach or patronize, but seems to really want to bring the best out in everybody.
The only shortcoming is a lack of photographs. It would have been nice to have more pictures accompanying the advice given in the text. But apart from that: absolutely recommendable!!!

Lacking, 26 Aug 2008
I bought this book maybe expecting too much because I gained very little! The cover is lovely and the pages are lovely, but the content is very trivial and really only based on the author's favourite shops etc. I think the title is misleading it is not a Goddess Guide but someone who has written a book listing the things that they like. As the book went on I read less and less and finally just flicked through the last few pages.

Dissappointing, 13 Aug 2008
This is a very beautifully illustrated book and makes for an interesting read. However i was slightly disappointed with it as it was just not what i was expecting. The book is a narration of the author's life essentially and gives useful tips on how to get pen marks off your bags, and clean your suede shoes for example but unfortunately i found it to be slightly boring and too personal, i found myself flicking through most of her memories that outline each new section. I expected the book to be more of a guide to how you should create your own style, for example when it comes to fashion; good places to find great heels, black dresses, how to apply your makeup, great places for cocktails and so on but it was more a biographical account of one persons own experiences which are always going to be different to how someone else experiences them. The majority of tips and advice she gives don't really relate to the average woman but someone essentially with a lot of money. This book definitely provides useful tips on what to look for when for example buying a suit etc but in my opinion a lot of it is not things people need to be told. It is aimed at a certain type of person who perhaps doesnt have time to go out and find new places, bars, restaurants etc and prefers having a list of good places to go, where they can get their teeth re-done, laser treatments etc which of course there is nothing wrong with. Overall i would recommend it for its more practical advice rather than it being a good read.

Had it for a year; still using it!, 29 Jan 2008
I bought the hard cover version of this book a year ago, just before Xmas. I loved reading it; like one of the other reviewers said, bit like a glossy mag, but better, more intimate and more indulgent! From the first read I got: A. a lot of fun reading it, B. a whole bunch of ideas, C. a shopping list of things I wanted to try out. I still flick through it regularly, most recently to read up on the NY shopping section to pick up some ideas, as I'll be there again soon. This book does not make me feel empty and sad, it's more like dipping into a box of chocolates without the calories. It certainly does not make me want to aspire to some unattainable ideal of a woman. It's very boudoir and decadent - in a nice way...

dip in and out read, 09 Jan 2008
Great book to pick up tips to try new products and shop in new places. Great book for on the coffee table, a joy to read. Better than the glossy mags and a bargain price.

The most beautiful book I've ever seen, 19 Dec 2007
I bought this book two weeks ago and think it is the most beautiful thing I had ever seen. Not only is the information cutting edge it is beautifully photographed and stunningly illustrated (I'm almost sure it's all done by the same lady who has written it). Like a very beautiful journal full of secret addresses, funny personal anecdotes and great tips, it's utterly unique as this style of book goes. I was especially surprised by the beginning of each chapter where the author tells a little story (very personal and intimate) and then the rest of each chapter is steeped in Style, Beauty, Food, Travel tips and secret shopping addresses and advice with the help of big, big names in the fashion and beauty world. This is a lovely, lovely book, full of practical tips from everyone from Christian Louboutin in his studio in Paris (I learnt all about those special red soled shoes and how to care for them) to Dolce & Gabbana in Milan (create the prefect wardrobe) and Laura Mercier on finding the perfect foundation. It's thoroughly enjoyable and ingeniously put together. For me however the big bonus is Gisele Scanlon's secret shop addresses and numbers and her perfume shopping advice it has been very helpful to me in the past week when shopping for different kinds of scents for my sister and friends. Her knowledge can be quite brilliant at times on travel, style and beauty matters. Overall this book is a truly beautiful read and the author seems very kind and helpful and shares everything she knows in a very friendly manner like having a friend tell you about a place she has been or a thing she has seen. Highlights for me after two weeks of dipping would be finding the perfect exercise bra, my make-up bag essentials and of course my favourite subjects perfume shopping and beautiful cupcakes which I found as one of her addresses in afternoon tea. I love this book and everything about it screams girly glamour. I'll be giving this as a gift to all of my best female friends over the next few days, however my own copy will stay in my handbag as I'm hoping to check out a few more of those fabulous shopping addresses come the January sales.

Refreshing honesty and splendid wit, 27 Sep 2008
Quite apart from its sheer range and depth in tackling its subject, this book is really entertaining. It blows a welcome blast of fresh air through the fragrance business, exposing some of its frailties ('We *never* change our fragrance formulas' is the lie you hear most often) and gambolling in the glittering light of enthusiasm when reviewing favoured scents. The fragrance reviews are splendidly opinionated, but it's always clear that what's being praised is quality, coherence, balance, rather than 'niceness', so you're still free to exercise your own preference when you're shopping. I'm particularly impressed by the authors' recognition of the part appearance and presentation play in our enjoyment of fragrance, so they tell you when the packaging is the best thing about a scent, and when the opposite is true, too. They're also very good at pointing out that where fragrance is concerned, you very rarely 'get what you pay for', because some of the cheapest products on sale are very good, and some of the most expensive are not. Even if you fall into the least favoured category of person - someone who wears fragrance because they're frightened of smelling of themselves, rather than because they actually like what they're wearing - you'll find constructive suggestions here, with splendidly direct warnings about pitfalls you might want to avoid. A splendid read, and a reliable guide - which will need updating with new editions every few years!

A trip down memory lane.., 18 Sep 2008
I spent last night poring over this book with my friends, male and female, looking up the various scents we have proudly worn then laughing and reminiscing while reading out the dead-on reviews. E.g. Poison 'The fragrance that everybody loves to hate...a must for every collector but please don't wear it to dinner'! It's warm, witty and wise - unlike anything else I have read on the subject.

A must have for handbags and manbags alike!, 09 Sep 2008
A danger to credit cards everywhere! This book is so evocative - descriptions of the good perfumes make you want to rush out and buy them without even smelling them first and reviews of the bad ones are screamingly funny. It's absolutely beautiful and a perfect present - also a brilliant way to drop a hint to your boyfriend, either because you want one of the scents or if you don't like his.

An indispensible guide for level 2 Beauty Therapy, 14 Sep 2008
As a Lecturer of Beauty Therapy I have found this book indispensible as a reference both for planning lessons and for my students for City and Guilds NVQ2 Beauty Therapy. I have met Lorraine Nordmann (an External Verifier for City and Guilds) whilst I was assessing students; and found her to be both exacting and knowledgeable. This book matches the teaching standards perfectly and so is ideal for students and Lecturers alike. There are clear learning objectives in all sections; and the book is easy for students to read too.

qualified beauty therapist/nail technician/makeup artist, 12 Nov 2006
as a professional i must say that this book is fantastic!

this is a must for all beauty therapy students, colour pictures really help too

this book really does cover everything from skin disorders to nail extensions

i will definately recommend this book

Beauty therapy the Foundations NVQ Level 2, 11 Jan 2005
great book a must for anyone in the industry.

No wonder my college lecturers use it as a "beauty bible"!!!, 30 Jan 2002
Clear, easy to digest guidance on all aspects of beauty procedures. Beautifully illustrated, excellent step-by-step photography. Covers everything from making appointments to detailed anatomy. Can't wait for Level 3 !!!

Essential to get you through your NVQ 2, 22 Feb 2001
This book contains all the knowledge and information you need in order to pass your NVQ 2 Beauty Therapy successfully. In my opinion it is the most concise and well illustrated of the NVQ Beauty Therapy books.

I especially liked the simple step by step diagrams which helped with the more complicated areas of the syllabus. The content covers the syllbus fully but without going into too much detail on areas where in depth knowledge is not required.

I also liked the real photos featured which show a true to life illustration of what cn be achieved by beauty therapy treatments, this is also inspiring as it shows you what you the outcomes of the skill you will have learnt by the end of the course.

This book provides excellent revision material (there are short self assessments at the end of each section) and will act as an invaulable reference guide during and after you have finished your beauty therapy NVQ 2.

Brilliant, 04 Aug 2008
This book is fantastic, i couldn't put it down once I'd started to read it, it's got everything you need to know about "making-up" your eyes, this is how some of the contents read:
HOW TO USE THIS BOOK
THE BASICS:
eyebrows
eyelids
shaping your eyes with shadows
eyeliners
eyelashes
false eyelashes
taking it off
EVERYDAY
FLIRTATIOUS
FUNKY
GLAMOROUS
INSPIRED
the instructions on how to do each style are well thought out and seem really easy to do with pictures and ingredients list on what and how to do it, it tells you what brushes to use and how to use them and its got loads of tips in it and the pictures are fab, i cant wait to start using it.......

Very Helpfull, 21 Jul 2008
The condition was perfect. The content was very helpfull. Make up looks which everyone can do just by having this book.

8 out of 10 ITEC A&P students preferred it, 17 Jun 2008
I teach the ITEC A&P qualification and know only too well how difficult it is to find a text book written at the level required to support the course and syllabus (A level).

I have used the Louise Tucker book for the last four years but it lacks decent illustrations and contains a shocking number of mistakes, even after a trillion editions - its biggest critism.

However I aim to use this book for the next academic year, after I discovered it too late for this year's students. It is written in a simple easy-to-read manner with plenty of activities such as labelling diagrams, which may seem a bit 'play school' to some, but are a proven technique to successful learning and retention of information. It may not fully support the ITEC syllabus but neither does any other text book.

A useful book for anyone studying ITEC or wishing to self-educate on the workings of the human body.

Great book - a good foundation for your A&P library, 31 Mar 2007
I am studying Aromatherapy and Massage and found this book helped me get through the A&P modules successfully. It is clear, concise with very helpful diagrams and 'colouring' workpages to reinforce information you have just read. I found it invaluable as a reference point and it made it much easier to approach other more 'technical' A&P textbooks as it gives you a basic but solid understanding. Well worth adding to the library, particularly if you are studying holistic therapies.

A&P guide, 31 Jan 2007
This is a good book for Holistic therapists. I use it in conjunction with Louise Tucker: An Intor to A & P and Ross & Wilson 10th Ed A&P and Tortora "the Bible" on A & P with online interactive flash test etc. Half way through the course and have read every book so far and use them all in conjunction in order to get the best overview of A & P as some aspects are not covered in as much detail in Francesca Gould's book as others. Worth buying to add to the library!

Not for the mature student, 12 Jan 2007
I am a mature student and was advised that I would have to have this book for my course of study. Whilst the book appears to be fairly correct when compared to other more professional text books, I'm afraid to say I found the presentation and style was a bit too 'babyish'. I would consider myself to be an intelligent woman capable of learning from a book designed for adult study, but unfortunately felt like I was studying from a book designed more for children than an adult. In all I would have to say it's not the book I would chose, given the choice again. The book is ok but better suited for school children.

Another Great Book!, 30 Jan 2006
Extremely glad I purchased this book from Amazon. I am studying beauty therapy and was not looking forward to the A&P part, a lot of books that I have looked at buying were very long winded, technical and make you want to put them down! This is simple, clear, and tells you the basic facts without too much detail, but I feel that it covers the essentials. There are some parts of the book that offer you "revision" by crosswords and questions, which I haven't done, but a good of way of learning if it works for you! Very good author and very good book!

Great on TV but the book?, 01 Sep 2008
Feel Fab at 50

As an Image professional I have always loved Gok since he jumped on to our TV screens a couple of years ago. He epitomises what we, as professionals, should be doing with our clients. I have continued to love his approach ever since. While the text in his book was sensible and uplifting, strangely enough, I found the choice of clothing incomprehensible for the most part. Instead of flattering his models, who are all gorgeous (and mostly voluptuous), they look uncomfortable and too tight with staining seams, incorrect fabric choices and so on. The Gok on TV would never make these fundamental errors and the upshot is that his girls look bigger than they really are. A conundrum!

Sorry Gok, I like you, but, 29 Dec 2007
The book does not help. The same model poses for pear shape and hourglass??? (same for the other models)
Why not take Trinny and Susannah's approach and show exactly what kind of clothing each shape needs instead of showing us ball gowns? Why not use the women from the series?



Gok Wan: Making the world a better place for ladies everywhere!, 12 Jul 2007
I am not usually a fan of fashion and stylist programmes, but I tuned into Gok's every week. It hit just the right tone, about celebrating what real women look like and making the best of what you already had rather than needing to change.
This book has the same loveable and helpful tone as the show, and offers a supportive mantra to learn to love what you have and make the best of it. The only real confusing element is if you're not sure which of the body types describes you best, eg if you're top heavy but also uncomfortable about your belly.
Gok is offering a valuable service to all women uncomfortable with their shapes and this book offers helpful advice, aswell as feeling like a confidante to remind you that yes, you are beautiful. Of course, I'm biased because I met Gok at his book signing and am absolutely in love with the man, but I really do recommend this book as an encouragement to all women who want to learn how to be comfortable in their own skin just the way it is.

very helpful, 30 Jun 2007
Five stars because although the book is not perfect I applaud the kindness of the author. An interesting aspect is that Wan himself tells us that he was overweight. Quite obviously he is not now - yet this is emphatically not a diet book. What seems to have happened is that the author styled himself to feel better about himself and the weightloss followed in due course when he was happier about himself. This book is so brilliant because it starts with what's right about you rather than with what is wrong, working with your self-consciousness rather than totally disregarding it. All teenage girls should be given this book and the author should be given a knighthood. Read in conjunction with watching the TV show.

My only criticisms: perhaps the style is a little cloying; but I'll live with that since I know he is trying to put the reader at their ease. Also sometimes it's hard to know exactly what shape you are: e.g. am I a pear shape, a bird with a big bum or petite? Maybe some comparative measurements would be useful. Worst thing would be to accidentally go for the wrong shape. Really I'm a combination of all three so how to work with that? There is some limited advice but more would be good.

You don't have to loose weight or be rich to look great!, 17 Jun 2007
The best thing about this book is its overall message: you do not necessarily have to loose weight or be rich to look your very best on a day-to-day basis! Gok's approach is 'drink more water, eat more fruit&veg and take good care of yourself'- no diet fads or expensive plastic surgery (see '10 years younger'!) needed. The book focuses on different types of body shape (big bottom, big belly, no curves, too skinny etc.) and provides LOTS of helpful advice as to what to wear and (probably even more important) what not. The last chapters focus on underwear and general beauty routine. All of this is very helpful and the writing style is very similar to the tv show, very positive and encouraging, all about flaunting your best bits and keeping quiet about the rest. I can honestly say that I have never read such a positive book about this subject: Gok does not preach or patronize, but seems to really want to bring the best out in everybody.
The only shortcoming is a lack of photographs. It would have been nice to have more pictures accompanying the advice given in the text. But apart from that: absolutely recommendable!!!

Lacking, 26 Aug 2008
I bought this book maybe expecting too much because I gained very little! The cover is lovely and the pages are lovely, but the content is very trivial and really only based on the author's favourite shops etc. I think the title is misleading it is not a Goddess Guide but someone who has written a book listing the things that they like. As the book went on I read less and less and finally just flicked through the last few pages.

Dissappointing, 13 Aug 2008
This is a very beautifully illustrated book and makes for an interesting read. However i was slightly disappointed with it as it was just not what i was expecting. The book is a narration of the author's life essentially and gives useful tips on how to get pen marks off your bags, and clean your suede shoes for example but unfortunately i found it to be slightly boring and too personal, i found myself flicking through most of her memories that outline each new section. I expected the book to be more of a guide to how you should create your own style, for example when it comes to fashion; good places to find great heels, black dresses, how to apply your makeup, great places for cocktails and so on but it was more a biographical account of one persons own experiences which are always going to be different to how someone else experiences them. The majority of tips and advice she gives don't really relate to the average woman but someone essentially with a lot of money. This book definitely provides useful tips on what to look for when for example buying a suit etc but in my opinion a lot of it is not things people need to be told. It is aimed at a certain type of person who perhaps doesnt have time to go out and find new places, bars, restaurants etc and prefers having a list of good places to go, where they can get their teeth re-done, laser treatments etc which of course there is nothing wrong with. Overall i would recommend it for its more practical advice rather than it being a good read.

Had it for a year; still using it!, 29 Jan 2008
I bought the hard cover version of this book a year ago, just before Xmas. I loved reading it; like one of the other reviewers said, bit like a glossy mag, but better, more intimate and more indulgent! From the first read I got: A. a lot of fun reading it, B. a whole bunch of ideas, C. a shopping list of things I wanted to try out. I still flick through it regularly, most recently to read up on the NY shopping section to pick up some ideas, as I'll be there again soon. This book does not make me feel empty and sad, it's more like dipping into a box of chocolates without the calories. It certainly does not make me want to aspire to some unattainable ideal of a woman. It's very boudoir and decadent - in a nice way...

dip in and out read, 09 Jan 2008
Great book to pick up tips to try new products and shop in new places. Great book for on the coffee table, a joy to read. Better than the glossy mags and a bargain price.

The most beautiful book I've ever seen, 19 Dec 2007
I bought this book two weeks ago and think it is the most beautiful thing I had ever seen. Not only is the information cutting edge it is beautifully photographed and stunningly illustrated (I'm almost sure it's all done by the same lady who has written it). Like a very beautiful journal full of secret addresses, funny personal anecdotes and great tips, it's utterly unique as this style of book goes. I was especially surprised by the beginning of each chapter where the author tells a little story (very personal and intimate) and then the rest of each chapter is steeped in Style, Beauty, Food, Travel tips and secret shopping addresses and advice with the help of big, big names in the fashion and beauty world. This is a lovely, lovely book, full of practical tips from everyone from Christian Louboutin in his studio in Paris (I learnt all about those special red soled shoes and how to care for them) to Dolce & Gabbana in Milan (create the prefect wardrobe) and Laura Mercier on finding the perfect foundation. It's thoroughly enjoyable and ingeniously put together. For me however the big bonus is Gisele Scanlon's secret shop addresses and numbers and her perfume shopping advice it has been very helpful to me in the past week when shopping for different kinds of scents for my sister and friends. Her knowledge can be quite brilliant at times on travel, style and beauty matters. Overall this book is a truly beautiful read and the author seems very kind and helpful and shares everything she knows in a very friendly manner like having a friend tell you about a place she has been or a thing she has seen. Highlights for me after two weeks of dipping would be finding the perfect exercise bra, my make-up bag essentials and of course my favourite subjects perfume shopping and beautiful cupcakes which I found as one of her addresses in afternoon tea. I love this book and everything about it screams girly glamour. I'll be giving this as a gift to all of my best female friends over the next few days, however my own copy will stay in my handbag as I'm hoping to check out a few more of those fabulous shopping addresses come the January sales.

Style worries banished, 26 Sep 2008
I found this book amazing, and plan on reading it a second time, this time carrying out research on the way. The underlying message is wear what you want as the most stylish item is your self-confidence. When reading the book's 'setting the scene', it makes you wish you were a witness to Nina's life as it sounds so exotic and indulgent, and makes you just keep on reading.

The clothing items you are advised to invest in are classic items that you always promise yourself you will buy, but in the end you let your head run away with the latest trends and go for the pair of rainbow platform shoes instead of the black cashmere cardy. This book gives reasons as to why you should believe in the basics, the crisp white shirt, the black cashmere. The only downfall is that it has the most beautiful drawings of chic ladies, but when the book describes items of clothing such as Jackie O's jeans, it doesn't show a picture of what is being referred to. But in all, love it, and it is taking pride of place on my bookcase.

wish I'd got this years ago , 18 Dec 2007
I found this book really helpful, My wardrobe was full of clothes that didnt do anything for me, I never knew what to put on in the morning, I got confused between style and fashion and just put on my safe clothes instead. This book helps you to bring out your own style and its so easy. I had the ultimate compliment from my husband, he said I looked good but it didnt look like I'd tried at all. I've been trying to do that for years (I'm 42!!)

Refreshing honesty and splendid wit, 27 Sep 2008
Quite apart from its sheer range and depth in tackling its subject, this book is really entertaining. It blows a welcome blast of fresh air through the fragrance business, exposing some of its frailties ('We *never* change our fragrance formulas' is the lie you hear most often) and gambolling in the glittering light of enthusiasm when reviewing favoured scents. The fragrance reviews are splendidly opinionated, but it's always clear that what's being praised is quality, coherence, balance, rather than 'niceness', so you're still free to exercise your own preference when you're shopping. I'm particularly impressed by the authors' recognition of the part appearance and presentation play in our enjoyment of fragrance, so they tell you when the packaging is the best thing about a scent, and when the opposite is true, too. They're also very good at pointing out that where fragrance is concerned, you very rarely 'get what you pay for', because some of the cheapest products on sale are very good, and some of the most expensive are not. Even if you fall into the least favoured category of person - someone who wears fragrance because they're frightened of smelling of themselves, rather than because they actually like what they're wearing - you'll find constructive suggestions here, with splendidly direct warnings about pitfalls you might want to avoid. A splendid read, and a reliable guide - which will need updating with new editions every few years!

A trip down memory lane.., 18 Sep 2008
I spent last night poring over this book with my friends, male and female, looking up the various scents we have proudly worn then laughing and reminiscing while reading out the dead-on reviews. E.g. Poison 'The fragrance that everybod