Pretty Iconic

by Sali Hughes
Pretty Iconic cover
Good Books rating 4.08
Nonfiction
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Paperback • £16.99
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  • ID: 6976
  • Added: 2025-12-07
  • Updated: 2025-12-13
  • ISBN: 9780008194543
  • Publisher: HarperCollins UK
  • Published: 2016-10-20
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 3

Pretty Iconic offers an in-depth look at the beauty products that have left an indelible mark on the world. Author Sali Hughes delves into the history and impact of these items, providing a unique perspective on how they've influenced our lives. The book is not just a list of products, but a celebration of the innovation and creativity that drives the beauty industry. It's a must-read for anyone interested in the intersection of beauty, culture, and history. /n/n Hughes' personal insights and engaging writing style make this book a captivating read. From makeup to skincare, the products featured in Pretty Iconic are as diverse as they are influential. The book also includes beautiful illustrations and photographs, making it a visual treat as well as an informative read. It's a testament to the power of beauty products to shape our identities and our world.

Reviews
Fashion Studies Journal · 2017-09-17
nostalgic 3.00

The photographs are visually appealing but somewhat vacuous, with a minimalist aesthetic that feels slightly outdated. The book offers a nostalgic journey through iconic beauty products.

The reviewer finds the photographs in the book to be pleasing yet somewhat empty, with a color-blocked minimalism that feels a bit dated. They appreciate the book's nostalgic trip down memory lane, highlighting the beauty products that have left a lasting impact on culture. The book is seen as a visual and cultural commentary on the evolution of beauty standards and products over time. The reviewer also notes that the book's content is engaging and thought-provoking, offering a unique perspective on the beauty industry.

Quick quotes

    The photographs are pleasing in a vacant way, their color blocked minimalism a slightly jauntier version of today's post-Into the Gloss beauty imagery.

    The book offers a nostalgic journey through iconic beauty products.

    The book is seen as a visual and cultural commentary on the evolution of beauty standards and products over time.

Blue Sky and Bunting · 2017-02-08
engaging 4.50

The writing is relatable and engaging, with personal anecdotes that resonate deeply with readers. The book is praised for its authenticity and humor.

The reviewer highlights the author's ability to write in a way that feels like a conversation with a close friend, making the book incredibly relatable and engaging. They particularly enjoy the personal stories and anecdotes shared throughout the book, which add a layer of authenticity and humor. The reviewer also appreciates the book's focus on the cultural impact of beauty products, noting that it goes beyond a simple product review to offer a deeper understanding of the beauty industry. The book is seen as a must-read for anyone interested in beauty and culture.

Quick quotes

    Ruby Woo looked awful on me' Sali's writing on these products is so spot on that I actually shouted 'yes' as some bits of it.

    The book is praised for its authenticity and humor.

    The reviewer also appreciates the book's focus on the cultural impact of beauty products.

Get The Gloss · 2016-10-19
witty 4.75

The book is described as funny, witty, and wonderfully engaging, offering a comprehensive encyclopedia of beauty knowledge. It is seen as a must-read for beauty enthusiasts.

The reviewer describes the book as a delightful mix of humor, wit, and engaging storytelling, making it a joy to read. They appreciate the book's comprehensive coverage of beauty products and its cultural significance, noting that it is more than just an edit—it is an encyclopedia of beauty knowledge. The reviewer also highlights the author's trusted voice in the beauty industry, making the book a must-read for anyone interested in beauty and culture. The book is seen as a celebration of the beauty products that have shaped the industry and culture over the years.

Quick quotes

    Funny, witty and wonderfully engaging, it's more than an edit – it's an encyclopaedia of beauty knowledge from one of the most trusted voices in the industry.

    The book is seen as a celebration of the beauty products that have shaped the industry and culture over the years.

    The reviewer highlights the author's trusted voice in the beauty industry.

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