On the Coffee Table: Hollywood and the Ivy Look

"Hollywood and the Ivy Look" is the definitive reference book of preppy American style as popularized by young Hollywood actors from 1955 to 1965.  It features many previously unreleased, full-page photographs of Hollywood style icons, and also includes behind-the-scenes shots from the films that helped cement the "ivy look" into the young American style consciousness at the time.  With minimal, yet amusing and interesting text, it's clearly all about the gorgeous pictures and the appreciation of classic men's fashion.  The relaxed and effortless approach to fashion as demonstrated by these Hollywood men is what inspires my own personal style and attitude.

Published by Reel Art Press and written by Tony Nourmand, a specialist in entertainment imagery, and Graham Marsh, who also authored "The Ivy Look: Classic American Clothing-A Pocket Guide," this book is a worthy addition to any preppy enthusiast's library.

Above images via Reel Art Press

Italo Prep

In the January '11 issue of Vanity Fair Italia, Richard Phibbs photographed a style editorial called Qualcosa di Prep (Something Prep).  I love these iconic Anglo-American inspired photographs. Interestingly, the preppy look has taken root in Italy over the past few decades, prompting many designers to borrow from the vintage Ivy League aesthetic for inspiration.  If you think these pictures look somewhat familiar, it's because Phibbs has done many celebrity portraits, magazine covers, and ad campaigns for Ralph Lauren.  This shoot is spot on.

One of my favorite books

Effortless

Images via Richard Phibbs