big book vs little book

last year saw the launch of two fashion books. and in this case, size doesn't matter because though they are two very different books, they are both worth having. well, technically the first book we're going to show you was published and launched in late 2008, but we only managed to get a copy in 2009. this small (around 6" x 6") book is titled "not by the book: fashioning design" by tippi ocampo. tippi started out in advertising, so she does have that creative process that starts out with an inspiration she can go crazy with, then tones down and streamlines for the market's consumption. but with this book, obviously a labor of love, the thought was, can it be done? and it was. because the book is, well, not by the book. first of all, it's bound in puffy brown satin:
and going through the pages is a 3-D experience, much like the griffin and sabine series of books that people went crazy for back in the early 90s. for example, there is a pocket with little photos of things that inspired her (vegetables, a stained-glass window) and actual fabric swatches:
and of course tippi's adorable illustrations and photos of the finished product:
last november 2009 was the opening of "slim: salvacion lim higgins" retrospective at the national museum and the simultaneous launch of the coffeetable book of the same name. unfortunately, we were on a trip and were unable to attend. but the exhibit is ongoing till march and we plan to go next week! meanwhile, we purchased a copy of the book—but we got the numbered, special edition, which comes with a tote bag and a hot-pink-fabric-covered sleeve:
the text was written by lizza nakpil, the gorgeous photos are by neal oshima, and the design of the book is by B+C. inside you'll see collages of slim's history...
full-bleed photos of scrumptious dresses (and details) that could've easily been designed today...
personalities and models from decades past wearing the creations... and so much more!

"not by the book: fashioning design" by tippi ocampo available at fully booked, powerbooks, select national book stores, best sellers, and through order@notbythebook.net. "slim: salvacion lim higgins" available at national book store.