Very interesting! Lots of interesting info on why we may dress as we do-society’s expectations, our parent’s preferences and more. I like the concept that our body is not why something may not look best on us but that the garment is not right! We all seem to blame our body shape. I really liked this quote: “The Style Formula is not about changing your body. It’s about objectively understanding the body you have and learning to artfully manipulate your look with your clothing choices.” It’s in Section II where the fun begins! There’s lots of great advice/tips on how to chose the best pieces for your wardrobe. Oh, and the QR codes linking to the author’s website with additional info are an added bonus! If you are the least bit unhappy/not excited about how your clothes look on you I highly recommend reading this book!

This book was really helpful. As someone that doesn't know much about fashion and styling this was such an eye opener. There are very practical tips and tricks in this book to help you style yourself better. It's a perfect combination of stories from people that struggle with styling and practical tips. This book will also help you if you struggle with buying too much clothes or always buying the wrong thing. I can definitely recommend this book, if you are interested in chlothing and fashion or if you simply want to improve your style. It's very beginner friendly.

I enjoyed reading all about finding my personal style. My closet is pretty stuffed and I have been wanting to hone down my wardrobe for years. This is just the book to help with that.

I look forward to going into my closet, trying on clothes and adjusting necklines, lengths to see what flatters most. Discovering my body architecture by using a yardstick vs a fabric measuring tape makes sense! Being realistic about my lifestyle and building a foundation wardrobe from there.

I loved the ideas about how to dress up (or down) a basic outfit. Although I do wish there were photos or sketches to accompany the many ideas.

<i>Thank you to NetGalley and Advantage Books for this ARC copy</i>

Interesting concept however I personally didn’t find the content interesting. There were times where I just felt confused as she talk about client this client that, and it lacked a lot of information I had wanted in the book. I felt proud of myself that I had most of the knowledge provided in the book, so I felt like I didn’t learn anything but this book would be a decent read for someone who is just starting to develop their own personal style.

This was a really helpful book that I wish I had when I graduated. Far too often I just bought things but had no clue how to wear them or make them work for my frame. I honestly never even thought of what colors would work best with my skin tone. Next time I go shopping I will keep all these tips in mind rather than just getting something I think is cute. Definitely a must read if you find yourself frustrated with how clothes look on you.

Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the arc

The Style Formula by Arica Symes is an approachable guide to personal style that helps readers move beyond trends and really understand what works for them. I liked how Symes broke things down in a supportive, practical way — the diagrams and flowcharts were a nice touch.

One thing I really appreciated was her tip about using a stiff yardstick or ruler (instead of a flexible measuring tape), along with a mirror, to help better assess your proportions and body shape — a very smart and practical suggestion.

I think this is a good starter book if you’re looking for advice on how to build a more intentional wardrobe. But having read many fashion and wardrobe advice books, I found this covers much of the same ground as most others — there wasn’t a lot new here for me. I also would have loved to see more visuals and style examples, since imagery really helps bring these concepts to life.

Rating: 3 out of 5

Thanks to NetGalley and Advantage Books for this e-ARC that will be published August 5th 2025.

The Style Formula is the perfect starter book for anyone who is interested in style and learning what works for their body! I highly recommend this book!

Thank you, NetGalley, publisher, and the author for the ARC of this book.

The Style Formula may need to be the next guidebook for those transitioning into Adulthood. This book offers valuable guidance in navigating the world of style while remaining authentic. This will make it into gifts for those I treasure. I love to gift friends with my favorite things, and this makes the cut.

I’ve been working at a Tv station for three years, but the rationale behind on-air clothing choices has eluded me the entire time.
This helped! It demystifies not only some things I could do to tweak my visual proportions, but also some things that, in retrospect, I’ve seen coworkers do.
I do wish the book was more gender-neutral as a whole… the intro implies that it will be, then every anecdote involves women, plus there are several segments encouraging the reader to find their best dress and skirt.
Not my thing. Would have preferred a little more on menswear, or at least slightly broader tips.

This was a great informational book! As a fresh 25 year old with a fully developed frontal lobe now I have been grappling with finding my true style and dressing the best for myself! This book offered practical information to really help narrow down what is missing when it comes to your current wardrobe and how to take what you already have and make it work for your body and personality! Feeling much more confident now on how to style myself based on my unique characteristics!

Whether you’re style-confused, wardrobe-fatigued, or just trying to rediscover your fashion joy, this book offers practical, judgment-free guidance.

The emphasis on building functional wardrobes rather than complete overhauls demonstrates financial and environmental consciousness that modern consumers appreciate.