www.ifraorg.org

International Fragrance Association

A Quarter Century Of Leadership For The World Wide Fragrance Industry 

Fragrance is chemistry and, as such, is always one step away from a lawsuit.  One way the industry combats the threat is with the International Fragrance Association, a conglomeration of national associations, whose goal is to self-regulate the industry they serve.  The mission additionally is 3 pronged: to do science, lobby for legislation and regulations and to raise membership, and thus gain control, over the fragrance producers and users of the world.

The website is valuable to FIDM students because it includes acronyms used by the industry; information about the Code of Practice; and, under Codes and Standards, in depth information about chemical compounds, their uses, effects and regulations.  The links page is extensive, ranging from societies (like Society of Cosmetic Chemists), to trade organizations (International Inventory of Cosmetic Ingredients), to government bureaus (like National Toxicology Program), to journals (like Flavour & Fragrance Journal). For ease of use, they also provide links to such categories as: Trade Organizations, Toxicology and Professional Societies, Government Sites and Other Groups of Interest. And, if in doubt where to vacation, there is a list of events and conferences to select from.

Reviewed by Library Staff Member - Carol Kerr Buckles

Embroidery: Italian Fashion follows the technique’s rise in a national culture known for its opulence and emotion, and brings readers the experience of both with a soft, embroidered cover. Inside, the photographs are beautifully detailed on glossy pages. The close-up shots allow readers to see and appreciate the detail of the embroidery. If you are interested in the type of embroidery that is done in fine houses like the Ecole Lesage, then this is the book for you.

There is little text to interfere with the gorgeous images and, once you begin browsing through the pages, the photographs will speak for themselves. There is a definite sense that the period in which this beautiful threading emerged can be compared to a rebirth following a dark period of over-consumerism whereby flamboyance and over-the-top extravagance was the trend of the day.  It is the simple beauty produced by the talent of visionaries wielding a simple needle and thread that will take your breath away page after page. Check out this wonderful ode to embroidery and be prepared to be wowed.

Includes work from: Anna Molinari, Blumarine, Dolce & Gabbana, Emilio Pucci, Gianfranco Ferré, Marni, Roberto Cavalli, Valentino, and Versace.

Reviewed by Library Staff member - Lucy Bellamy