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I remember when this came out in the early '80's. Lisa Birnbach did a lecture circuit stop at my college, the lecture hall was PACKED. TOPH was taken deathly seriously by many a college student at that time, and took cliqueishness to a new level. I didn't care for the book much at the time but I liked the 'style' (NEVER call it fashion) pointers--solidly traditional, solidly constructed clothing, designed for a lifetime and a lifestyle, so to speak; and in the book all other sense of fashion could go to hell if it hadn't already. 'The Look' was key, it used to be that appearance was everything, if you looked wrong, you WERE wrong. The book is still a good read. Lisa Birnbach (with Chip Kidd) is coming out with a updated book, 'True Prep', in September 2010, which is attempting to bridge the 30 years after TOTP. Expect battle lines to be drawn between 'True Preps' and trad TOTP believers, and I would highly recommend getting TOTP before 'True Prep' comes out. A good retrospective opinion by someone who contributed to the OPH here: http://www.nytimes.com/2005/10/24/opinion/24hamlin.htmlRead full review
The book is a period piece -- a different era. It is a worthy spoof of blatant pretentiousness and sometimes dubious privilege. But the book is also endearing in a way. "You would have had to be there". Worth the hefty price? Not if you have to ask. I would write more here. But I need to get moving along with ordering an new belt with nautical flags.
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
I was looking for this book for a while, because I find it hilarious and I like to collect unique books. This one has been out of print for years, and this was the best deal I found. Truly a funny book, and so much of the content still holds true! All of it is, of course, tongue in cheek, but founded on very sharp observations. Great 80s gem.
I discovered this book at a friend's house and we spent the entire afternoon reading it and laughing hysterically. It's very funny, but also once you're finished you feel an incredible desire to throw on your comfiest Lacoste polo and madras skirt and head down to a weekend at the Cape. It was written over 25 years ago, but even the city-prep guides are still somewhat acurate (at least for Baltimore, where we live). Worth paying a little extra for a decent used copy.
Love this book! Brings me back to my high school and college years.
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
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