sophskieee's profile picture

sophskieee's review

3.0
informative inspiring lighthearted fast-paced

aeculley's review

5.0

My personal style can best be described as “lack there of”, so I was very excited when I won this copy of Nevertheless, She Wore It by @anndanger . I’d like to send @chroniclebooks a big thank you for this book. The art work is exquisite and the writing really made me think. My teenage daughter and I have been having a lot of discussions about clothing, fashion and personal style as well, so I’m encouraging her to read this too. If you love clothes, or you find fashion befuddling, or anything in between, I highly recommend this book.
darcerenity's profile picture

darcerenity's review


DNF. Just wasn't into it.
kelsbrary's profile picture

kelsbrary's review

4.0

Nevertheless, She Wore It by Ann Shen is a captivating and empowering exploration of iconic women throughout history and the signature outfits that helped shape their legacies. With stunning illustrations and insightful anecdotes, this book celebrates the sartorial choices of remarkable women who fearlessly expressed themselves through fashion.

Ann Shen's artistic talent shines through in the beautiful illustrations that grace the pages of this book. Each drawing captures the essence and style of the women being featured, accompanied by brief but impactful stories that shed light on their achievements and the significance of their chosen attire. From artists to activists, athletes to entertainers, the diverse range of women highlighted in this book is truly inspiring.

One of the notable strengths of Nevertheless, She Wore It is the way it highlights the individuality and agency of each woman, emphasizing how their fashion choices were deliberate and often connected to their personal narratives. It showcases how clothing can be a powerful tool for self-expression, cultural commentary, and challenging societal norms.

The book covers a wide range of eras and cultures, showcasing women from different walks of life. From Frida Kahlo's vibrant traditional Mexican garments to Audrey Hepburn's timeless elegance, each chapter offers a glimpse into the style evolution and impact of these influential figures. Readers will find themselves fascinated by the stories behind the outfits and the women who wore them.

While the illustrations and narratives are engaging and visually appealing, some readers might yearn for more in-depth exploration of each woman's fashion choices and their significance within their respective historical contexts. Nevertheless, the book serves as an excellent starting point for further exploration and appreciation of these remarkable individuals.

Ultimately, Nevertheless, She Wore It is a celebration of female empowerment and self-expression through fashion. It encourages readers to embrace their own personal style and recognize the power of clothing as a means of communication and self-assertion. Ann Shen's exquisite artwork and concise storytelling make this book a captivating tribute to the fearless women who made a lasting impact on history.

Disclaimer: This review is based on a copy of Nevertheless, She Wore It provided by the publisher.

academiceditor's review

4.0

I usually rate books higher when I feel I've learned a bit from them. So I'll round up my stars here. The text is informative, yet approachable for younger readers. The illustrations are the author's drawings, not photographs, which may also be part of the appeal for younger readers-- the cutesy style de-sexifies the clothing. The author is skilled at illustration, no question, but it's a definite style choice that I wasn't totally on board with. I mean, Josephine Baker looks like a Disney pixie. Also, Selena Quintanilla in her iconic bustier is on the cover, but not in the book, except for a mention that Jennifer Lopez played her. What's up with that?

Thank you to the publishers and NetGalley for the opportunity to review a temporary digital ARC in exchange for an unbiased review.

comicsandcoffee's review

4.0

Easy to read, enjoyable, I learned something! Fashion as a protest, amazing.
kstew1622's profile picture

kstew1622's review

5.0
informative inspiring lighthearted relaxing fast-paced
katekempton's profile picture

katekempton's review

4.0

The ARC of this book was provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. This is a creative and unique take on fashion and the women who helped define eras. Women continue to face a multitude of uphill challenges for political, economic, and social equality, and this book does a phenomenal job at showcasing the fashion statements that have advanced cultural revolutions, freedoms, and women’s empowerment. While the read itself was quick with well researched chapters, it was equally informative, empowering, and engaging with a scattering of wonderful illustrations throughout. It’s a perfect coffee table book for fashion lovers and history buffs alike.

kelsialexander's review

4.0

Nevertheless, She Wore It by Ann Shen is a captivating and empowering exploration of iconic women throughout history and the signature outfits that helped shape their legacies. With stunning illustrations and insightful anecdotes, this book celebrates the sartorial choices of remarkable women who fearlessly expressed themselves through fashion.

Ann Shen's artistic talent shines through in the beautiful illustrations that grace the pages of this book. Each drawing captures the essence and style of the women being featured, accompanied by brief but impactful stories that shed light on their achievements and the significance of their chosen attire. From artists to activists, athletes to entertainers, the diverse range of women highlighted in this book is truly inspiring.

One of the notable strengths of Nevertheless, She Wore It is the way it highlights the individuality and agency of each woman, emphasizing how their fashion choices were deliberate and often connected to their personal narratives. It showcases how clothing can be a powerful tool for self-expression, cultural commentary, and challenging societal norms.

The book covers a wide range of eras and cultures, showcasing women from different walks of life. From Frida Kahlo's vibrant traditional Mexican garments to Audrey Hepburn's timeless elegance, each chapter offers a glimpse into the style evolution and impact of these influential figures. Readers will find themselves fascinated by the stories behind the outfits and the women who wore them.

While the illustrations and narratives are engaging and visually appealing, some readers might yearn for more in-depth exploration of each woman's fashion choices and their significance within their respective historical contexts. Nevertheless, the book serves as an excellent starting point for further exploration and appreciation of these remarkable individuals.

Ultimately, Nevertheless, She Wore It is a celebration of female empowerment and self-expression through fashion. It encourages readers to embrace their own personal style and recognize the power of clothing as a means of communication and self-assertion. Ann Shen's exquisite artwork and concise storytelling make this book a captivating tribute to the fearless women who made a lasting impact on history.

Disclaimer: This review is based on a copy of Nevertheless, She Wore It provided by the publisher.
joyfulreads_3's profile picture

joyfulreads_3's review

4.0

Ann Shen once again showcases just how iconic women are, this time in the form of fashion.