Perfect or patronising? (How to Walk in High Heels - Camilla Morton)

Member Name: PurpleSkies

Product:	How to Walk in High Heels - Camilla Morton
Date:	19/08/08 (28 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Good advice in a fun format

Disadvantages: Can seem patronising and over simplified at times

I have to admit that when I initially read this book I wasn't quite sure whether to take it seriously or not.
The idea of gliding up and down the isles in Tesco to break in my new pair of heals, as suggested in the book, might seem like a great idea... at least until the walk home with heavy back in each hand!
But take suggestions like this with a pinch of salt, apply a little commonsense and this book actually offers some pretty good advice.

The first couple of sections are very "Sex And The City". Talk of Manolos crop up continuously throughout the book but particularly in these sections which are all about how to be stylish and how to stay stylish in tricky situations! However it offers advice on how to make the best of what you have rather than make ridiculous changes, which I found quite refreshing in this type of book. It also gives some sound advice on how to handle yourself in social situations so could offer some self help style guidance to those with low levels of confidence but in a fun way!

The "technical" I have to admit I found quite dull. It basically was very simplified instructions, which might be great for some, but after having an iPod for nearly 3 years I don't need to be told in great detail how to transfer songs onto it from my pc!

Although this book is quite fun and light-hearted it does actually cover some quite serious topics. With information on issues like buying a house and, perhaps quite appropriate in today's economy, how to stay in credit, this book offers advice without overloading the reader with lots of complicated data.

There are also a few famous names appearing in this book. There is a section on buying shoes written by Manolo Blahnik himself! Vivienne Westwood shares her knowledge about art and Kylie gives advice on how to "enhance your finer assests".

Although it may seem a little patronising this book did make me smile a few time. It's definitely aimed at the more girly girl but when taken with a pinch of salt can be enjoyed by a wider audience.

Summary: General fun with some good advice