Given the times that we are in, sometimes it's best to just go on a literary escape and seek inspiration. I'm already on my third book and it feels odd because pre-ECQ, I'm usually scrambling for time just to finish whatever I'm reading given my erratic schedule. While I'm usually drawn to reading fashion books, I still give fiction, classics, memoirs, self-help ones, etc. some leeway. It really is tough to play favorites, but let me share with you four of my picks that you can enjoy reading while at home.
The New Garconne: How to Be a Modern Gentlewoman by Navaz Batliwalla
Prone to dry lips this summer? No worries! Have the Lucas Papaw Ointment by your bedside table and apply, as you get lost in your book. Don't forget to hydrate too!
Just by reading the book's title, I can already relate to it; and this is the reason why I bought it. You see, I am not your typical girly-girl and this goes beyond my fashion choices. Written by London-based Fashion Editor, Navaz Batliwalla, this book features interviews of modern, independent women traversing through life and their careers—in style. Take a peek inside their apartments/studios/offices, know about their greatest influences, and learn a thing or two on how they achieved success. No two women are alike, but they all share “the duality of old meets new, luxury meets utility, masculine meets feminine” in their personal styles.
Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen
Light a scented candle as you build a calm, relaxing environment while you read. Seek our candles here.
Who hasn't fallen in love with this classic? I believe this book addresses love without you having to cringe on cheesiness. Set in the early 19th century, this book by Jane Austen is a novel of manners on how marriage, decorum, wealth, and social status were depicted in English society. The story highlights the relevance of marrying for love and not for wealth or social status, in spite of the pressures during that time. I am smitten by the novel's female protagonist, Elizabeth Bennet—a clever, strong-willed young woman who goes against the grain regardless of what society expects her to be. She meets Mr. Darcy, her love interest, wherein judgment gets the best of her.
Love Style Life by Garance Doré
Protect your specs—when you keep them after hours of reading—with a fun, printed pouch like the Kadi. Apply your chosen oil/s to further de-stress!
I think I've read this thrice or four times already! I just love how the author, Garance Doré, speaks to me in ways that make me reflect on my own experiences, dreams, and finding my personal style. Aside from sharing her life story, she also features inspiring women who have influenced her as an artist. Her candid approach on narrating her journey is mixed with her chic illustrations and distinct photography. Sorry, but this book will make you miss traveling too!
Influence by Ashley and Mary-Kate Olsen
Why not setup a diffuser for a more inviting ambience as you read? Seek room fragrances here.
This book is special not only because it was written by my childhood idols, but also it was gifted to me by my sister (she knew how much I loved the Olsens). Since retiring from acting, Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen have become more private with their personal lives that's why reading this book allows you to get a glimpse of it and well, their influences. Here, they showcase a myriad of never-before-seen photos of beautiful people, places, fashion, events, and their most treasured pieces; accompanied by interviews of the world's most celebrated tastemakers including Karl Lagerfeld and John Galliano, among others. Crossing my fingers that they release another book in the near future!
I know that you just can't go out and buy a book, but in case you have any of these already and had time hold you back from perusing it, now is the opportunity to actually read and get carried away by it. On the other hand, you can always search for these titles and purchase or download an e-book online at Amazon, Apple Books, Kobo, etc. Hope you'll love these books as much as I do!
Prone to dry lips this summer? No worries! Have the 
Light a scented candle as you build a calm, relaxing environment while you read. Seek our candles 
Protect your specs—when you keep them after hours of reading—with a fun, printed pouch like the 
Why not setup a diffuser for a more inviting ambience as you read? Seek room fragrances 
Nasia Cammayo
Author