Styling SLOWING
I've got my book (cover) style covered.
It’s not news that aesthetic inclinations have crept into the literary world, especially online: prose is deemed chic; curated Instagram posts of book covers in the same color scheme flood our feeds; tastemakers match their looks to their favorite reads. I personally love (and participate in) all of these examples and have grown tired of the discourse surrounding the “right” way to engage with literature (read: are they actually reading these books or just posting them for the vibes?). As countless others have argued, anything to get people excited about reading is a step in the right direction!
While I try not to judge books by their covers, I stand by the idea that a book is like a home—an intriguing visual brings you to the front door, and the words beckon (and, in the best cases, keep) you inside the space. That said, I’ve started to see the confluence of style and language as an opportunity to pay closer attention to what makes a book its own unique being.
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As I shared in my first Slowing design diary, crafting a book’s (visual) identity is no easy task:
“I wondered what palette would make the most sense to convey Slowing’s pillars—time, pace, and creativity—without leaning too heavily into certain wellness trends. I also wanted to make sure it felt true to who I am.”
The same could be said for my wardrobe. Early in the design process, I recall being asked about pulling colors from my website or pieces I liked to wear. After many iterations, we arrived at a winning final palette. It represented Slowing’s tone and my daily life—and style.
Style and storytelling have always been anchors for me, both personally and professionally (I write about this in the book). The former was once a louder, outward vehicle for self-expression (and, if I’m being honest, status) but has morphed into something quieter—somewhere between meditation and distraction. (Tangibly speaking, I’m all about comfortable clothing these days, with a few standout accessories to give the look some energy.)
As I prepare to bring Slowing into the world, the convergence of these two elements has been feeling more pronounced. I experienced an inkling of this in June while packing for my first trip abroad since the pandemic. Author copies from my publisher arrived days before our departure, and my mind was still focused on matters closer to home. I haphazardly threw together misty blue and cream-colored pieces in my suitcase, only to realize—after glimpsing a copy of Slowing amid the chaos—that one of my travel looks unintentionally (and nearly perfectly) matched the book.
It’s like what Elisa Gabbert writes in the essay “On Recently Returned Books” from her collection, Any Person Is the Only Self: “Anything you do every day—that’s your life.”
I read (and try to write) every day, and the same goes for getting dressed. But when I slow down to see beyond the aesthetics—of my closet, content, bookshelf, life—I remember correlating stories and future lessons: I wore this dress during my first-anniversary trip. That hat to my first editor meeting. Those shoes on a revitalizing walk around my neighborhood. I will wear those earrings to Slowing’s New York launch event. I will style that sweater with those jeans and proudly embody my book in every sense of the word. I will wear my heart on my sleeve, throw on a great outfit, and have fun both on and off the page, which, if you ask me, never goes out of style.
Styling Slowing: Cover Colors
I couldn’t resist sharing a style edit inspired by (the colors of) Slowing. From the practical to the whimsical, here are some pieces I’m wearing and eyeing.
SWEATERS & TOPS
Alex Mill Mill Shirt in Halo Stripe - Alex Mill Jac Polo Sweater in Faded Navy - Alex Mill Paris Sweater Jacket in Harbour Blue - babaà Cardigan No 22 in Natural - Caron Callahan Ava Shirt in Blue Hopper Stripe - Chloé Bow Tank Top in Off-White - DONNI Linen Relaxed Shirt in Creme - Maryam Nassir Zadeh x J.Crew Sheer Cropped Cardigan Sweater in Sand - SEA New York Renata Puff-Sleeve Pintuck Blouse
PANTS & DRESSES
Caron Callahan Andes Pant - Loeffler Randall Vineta Blue/Cream Gathered Dress - Loeffler Randall Demi Natural Embroidered Pant
SHOES & ACCESSORIES
ATP Atelier Petina Pastel Blue Nappa Mary Jane Flats in Pastel Blue - Catbird Phyllis the Snail Charm - Cawley Studio Silk Scrunchie in Ivory/Riviera - Jenny Bird Dylan Ring in Gold - Lauren Manoogian Off-White Calabaza Tote - Loeffler Randall Bobby Blue Gingham Pleated Tote - Nanushka Beige Aliza Sunglasses - Pacific “Books” Baseball Cap in Baby Blue - Sandy Liang Blue MJ Double Strap Ballerina Flats - Rachel Comey Alpha Hoop - TOTEME Off-White 'The Asymmetric' Ballerina Flats in Snow
Pre-orders are essential for all authors, but especially first-time authors. They indicate widespread interest and help secure placement in bookstores and other retailers. I've reached a critical point in my life and work, so your support in this way would mean the world to me!
AMAZON · BARNES & NOBLE · BOOKSHOP
For Your Next Chapter
If you enjoyed this Slowing diary, check out the previous installments…
SLOWING: On Prompts
I didn’t initially set out to write a book that could be considered self-help, but in addition to sharing my (slow) stories—and the stories of those I interviewed—I wanted to include an element that could help readers find or rewrite their own.
SLOWING: On Interviews
Questions and answers are the bedrock of our lives. We ask for information, meaning, connection. We respond with what we have available to us—whether it’s a long story or a small shrug. To me, the practice of interviewing embodies the adage it’s about the journey, not the destination.
SLOWING: A Color Story
For the purposes of this design diary, I keep coming back to color. I wondered what palette would make the most sense to convey Slowing’s pillars—time, pace, and creativity—without leaning too heavily into certain wellness trends.
Meet SLOWING
I knew Slow Stories would force me to confront unresolved feelings. I knew it would be the thing I wrote before writing anything else. I learned that things can change when you least expect it, and as a result, you change, too. Slow stories can evolve, and new chapters emerge.
I just pre-ordered mine, cannot wait to read this!!! Congrats again 🩵
Hi Rachel, where can one purchase a copy of your book, Slowing?