Review: IT'S ALL ABOUT THE DRESS by Vicky Tiel

Written by Treasure Seeker Colleen

Love the pink title of this fashionista's delight and the picture of her, on the cover, as a young designer. I can't believe she is only 67; what a full life she has lived and is still working and enjoying! Also love the illustrations: the up and down hearts at the bottom of each page, the models and sketches of outfits and the chapter headings: Eating and Drinking our way from Paris to Rome, No Sex for Shoes, Dinner with Coco Chanel, The Power of a Dress, My Driver is a Hitman and many more. Recipes for French Apple Tart, Pasta, Leg of Lamb, and all sorts of recommendations for feeding that temple (the body) are included. The advice is current: buy fresh and top quality, eat in moderation, no additives and learn to cook. Each chapter is summarized by what Vicky learned from Hollywood stars, business connections and her lovers and husbands, in other words, what she "..learned in 40 years about men, women, sex and fashion." Make no mistake, Vicky Tiel learns quickly and extremely well. While the book is written in a lighthearted, humorous style, it is apparent that her skills and talents are highly developed. She is a great communicator, superb listener and analyst of people and social opportunities, extremely creative, goal oriented and productive and a very hard worker. Graduating early, she was already designing her own line and inventing new styles: the mini skirt, pouf, wrap dress, hot pants, lace panty hose, bra as street wear, bustier frock (worn by Julia Roberts, Pretty Woman) - she looked great in these and helped others, especially those in films, to look fantastic, too. Her designs accentuate the curves and long legged look and she continues design ready to wear for Neiman Marcus and Bergdorf Goodman. Her specialty lines can be found in department stores everywhere and she works from her shop in Paris. A Perfume and Cologne line, included Ulysse, a men's fragrance. She is one of a very few Americans to operate her own Fashion Design business in Pris and has lasted longer than other French Designers. "It's All About the Dress" is about a gifted woman who has a lot to say about how to succeed in fashion and in life. The book is one to hang on to, to recommend and to read and reread. Definitely energizing and uplifting. You can find out more at vickytiel.com.