Threads: My Life Behind the Seams in the High-Stakes World of Fashion

I wasn't sure what how much I'd enjoy a book by a menswear designer, but I have to say that this book was a joy. From his humble beginnings in a Middle Eastern Boston neighborhood, Joseph Abboud moved from a kid with a face pressed to the window of a men's shop to one of the top designers in the world. I will definitely never look at a tie in the same way or a men's suit. The insight into the polo shirt craze of the 80's was endearing also, as I remember everyone in my high school sporting one in every color available. Probably the most curious thing to me after reading this book is why I've never heard of Joseph Abboud until now. Some of the people he's dressed have definitely caught my attention. We live in a more casual time, but reading this book has definitely made me think about how people perceive appearance, even in this dot-com-shorts-and-sandals world. There's still nothing like a good man in a good suit. That's what made me fall for my husband. Check this one out. There's more than clothes here.

Man, oh man! What an engrossing, informative, delightful read! I loved the conversational tone, as if "Joey" and I were tete-a-tete (thanks to Ellen Stern's writing skill, for sure). I loved learning about buttons and paisleys and the infinite variety of browns. Who knew....? Most of all, I loved being invited to get to know this interesting person, with his art and craft, his vision and passion, and his oh, so elegant, oh, so very beautiful style. What a man!

Not just for fashionistas, this conversational, accessible, melodious book soars above the genre of celebrity autobiographies. Joseph Abboud is in love with fabric--the look, feel, smell, & posibility of it-- & he not only catches you up in his passion, he reminds you that passion itself is the defining human experience. The voice rings true, the pace is impeccable,the whole read a great ride, thanks to Abboud's seamless partnership with former GQ editor and much-published author Ellen Stern. Don't miss it.

You don't need to be a fashionista to find something of interest in this book, part memoir, part style guide, part insider's look at a complex industry. Every page has a nugget or two of information, an insight or piece of gossip that keeps you turning. It's a fast and fun read.

If you're not particularly into the world of high fashion, you may approach this Joseph Abboud bio gingerly. That would be wrong. It's terrific. From the first sentence to the last this guy's got some story to tell about a life lived with driving passion -- it's funny and fascinating. Grab it!