Books: Queer Eye for the Straight Guy - The Fab 5's Guide

I don't buy into the whole stereotype of gay men having inherently better fashion sense, but I do admit that the book that the "Queer Eye for the Straight Guy" hosts wrote is pretty good. A lot of these "fine living" books are a bit too passive in their suggestions, but the Fab 5's book is written in a manner that gives you concrete, do-it-today tips (keep in mind I've never seen a single episode of the TV series). I like instructional material that gets straight to the point, and without pimping a whole lot of brand names or particular products.

To be honest, though, I stumbled across this book in a bargain bin section at the Waldenbooks in the local mall. It was a great-looking book; it's essentially filled with snarky commentary and fairly typical design/living tips, but it's all wrapped up in a fantastic-looking package. Call me superficial, but not many books these days come printed in full, glossy color with a shiny dust jacket and sturdy hardcover binding. "The first bite is with the eyes," after all.

Here's a pretty quotable quote from the book: Men seem to commonly mistake "Black Tie Optional" for "Come All Ye Jackasses." There are ways to make the traditional tuxedo fun and have spirit, but they're generally not rentable for $5.99 a night from the local mall's Bob's-Buck-a-Tux.