Influence

Influence

by Mary-Kate and Ashley Olson [YA j746.92 Ols]

This is a gorgeous coffee-table book about fashion, seasoned fashion designers, respected authors and others who have influenced Mary-Kate Olsen and Ashley Olsen with hope that they, in turn, will inspire others. Although this book is presented as a Young Adult item, due to its level of sophistication, in the artists interviewed as well as the discussions on fashion and writing, I feel this book is geared toward adults who are interested in the world of art and expression. In this book, Mary-Kate and Ashley reflect on what has paved the way for their generation and has helped shape them into who they are today. The girls interviewed twenty respected artists and seasoned designers who have impacted the twins throughout the past decade. Interviews include fashion designers Karl Lagerfield, Diane VonFurstenburg, John Galliano and Christian Louboutin, as well as model-actress Lauren Hutton. During each interview, the girls explore what inspired the interviewee as well. Influence has 4 major sections: Fashion, Environment, Art and Giving Back. The book's artwork includes photographs and drawings provided by the interviewed artists, exclusive photographs of Ashley and Mary-Kate from world renowned photographer Rankin, and a wide variety of other never-before-seen materials and interviews from the 22-year-old twins' private collections. This unique book is edited by fashion and arts writer Derek Blasberg and designed by prominent book designer, Rodrigo Corral. --recommended by Jessica H. - Walt Branch Library

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