So my bf is a what some may call a fashionisto (-n- the male version of a fashionista, some what of a metrosexual). I am very supportive of his interests and since we work as a team I keep my eyes open for things that he may be interested in. So I thought... why not write a post about fashion coffee table books. I have since found them to inhabit an entire world of their own -- apparently fashion enthusiasts prefer to display books on their coffee tables rather than carry them around and read them (lol). My bf could also use a good book or two on his side table so I specifically ventured looking for books that focused on men's fashion.
As I expected there weren't that many, but even more disturbing is that there were relatively no books about black men's fashion or even including black men's fashion, even worse there were hardly any books that had a single black or colored man in it.
One of the better examples were
American Fashion Menswear by the Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA). It was published with the idea that it is the most comprehensive portfolio of both historical and contemporary influences of men's fashion in American culture. At 280 pages and 4.6 pounds one would hope that it be the most thorough and complete collection -- including all the influences and genres of men's fashion. But no! As does its counterparts, the CFDA has interpreted American fashion to be white American fashion. And although the book does highlight some black celebrities like Sean "Diddy" Combs and Dennis Rodman, it still does not give due credit to the influences of all minority cultures in America. Despite its colorful pictures, this book is a complete whitewash of American culture.
As I am not the expert on this genre I am hoping that I overlooked a book or two that did include a more illuminating display of men's fashion and would really love any comments you guys may have or books you would like to suggest that would change my point of view. *sighs
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