Fantasy Books with a High Fashion Theme: Style Meets Magic

Introduction: When Fashion and Fantasy Collide

Fantasy has always been about escapism, magic, and otherworldly aesthetics, but what happens when fashion becomes part of the worldbuilding? From enchanted gowns to politically-charged couture, fashion-forward fantasy books blend style with sorcery in unforgettable ways.

In this curated list, we spotlight 10 fantasy books where high fashion plays a starring role, perfect for readers who want their fantasy with a side of fierce.

1.The Belles by Dhonielle Clayton

The Belles by Dhonielle Clayton is a richly imagined fantasy novel set in a world where beauty is not natural but crafted by a select group of women known as the Belles. These young women are revered for their magical abilities to transform the appearance of others, shaping society’s ideals of beauty. The story follows Camellia, a talented Belle, as she navigates the dazzling yet demanding world of Orléans, where the pursuit of perfection masks deeper truths. Through vivid imagery and thought-provoking themes, the novel explores identity, societal pressure, and the meaning of true beauty.

2. A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J. Maas

A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J. Maas is a lush and atmospheric fantasy that blends romance, danger, and enchantment in a world where fae rule and mortals tread carefully. The story follows a fiercely independent young woman who is drawn into a realm of magic and mystery after a fateful encounter. Throughout the novel, fashion plays a subtle yet evocative role, reflecting the grandeur and elegance of the fae courts—from intricate gowns shimmering with enchantment to the rich textures and colors that hint at power, status, and transformation. Maas uses clothing not only to paint a vivid picture of her world but also to underscore shifts in identity, emotion, and belonging.

3. Threads That Bind by Kika Hatzopoulou

Threads That Bind by Kika Hatzopoulou is a captivating fantasy novel that intertwines Greek mythology with a noir-inspired mystery, set in the partially submerged city of Alante. The story follows Io Ora, the youngest of three sisters descended from the Fates, who uses her unique ability to see and manipulate the threads connecting people as a private investigator. As she delves into a series of unsettling crimes, Io uncovers a conspiracy that threatens not only her city but also her own fate. Set in a Greek myth-inspired dystopia, this unique fantasy includes thread magic where fate and fabric intertwine. The heroine, a descendant of the Fates, weaves destiny with threads and every stitch has style.

4. The Cruel Prince by Holly Black

The Cruel Prince by Holly Black is a dark and enchanting tale set in the treacherous world of Elfhame, where mortal Jude Duarte strives to carve out a place for herself among the beautiful and deadly fae. The novel pulses with courtly intrigue, power plays, and a fierce desire for control, all wrapped in a world of exquisite elegance. High fashion plays a striking role in this realm, where opulent gowns, jeweled armor, and fantastical accessories serve not only as symbols of status and power but also as tools of manipulation and self-expression. Through lush descriptions of attire, Holly Black uses fashion to heighten the allure and danger of the fae court, adding another layer of tension to Jude’s struggle for power and acceptance.

5. The Selection by Kiera Cass

The Selection by Kiera Cass is a romantic dystopian tale set in a future monarchy where 35 girls are chosen to compete for the prince’s heart—and a crown. At the center is America Singer, a strong-willed young woman thrust into a glittering competition that challenges her heart and beliefs. High fashion is a dazzling and essential element of the story, with elaborate gowns, sparkling jewels, and regal styling reflecting the grandeur of the palace and the pressures of royal life. The transformative power of clothing is woven throughout the narrative, symbolizing the shift in identity, class, and the public facade each contestant must maintain.

6. Serpent & Dove by Shelby Mahurin

​Serpent & Dove by Shelby Mahurin is a spellbinding fantasy that weaves together magic, romance, and intrigue in a world inspired by 17th-century France. The story follows Louise le Blanc, a sharp-witted witch hiding from her past, and Reid Diggory, a devout witch hunter, whose paths cross in an unexpected and life-altering way. Set against the backdrop of the city of Cesarine, the novel delves into themes of identity, belief, and the gray areas between good and evil. While high fashion isn't a central focus, the setting evokes the elegance of the era, with references to period-appropriate attire that enrich the atmosphere and underscore the societal structures within the narrative. Mahurin's vivid descriptions and character-driven storytelling create an immersive experience that captivates readers from start to finish.

7. Daughter of the Moon Goddess by Sue Lynn Tan

Daughter of the Moon Goddess by Sue Lynn Tan is a luminous fantasy inspired by Chinese mythology, following Xingyin, the secret daughter of the Moon Goddess, as she embarks on a perilous journey through the Celestial Kingdom to free her mother from exile. Tan's prose is richly descriptive, immersing readers in a world of ethereal beauty and intricate detail. Fashion plays a significant role in this narrative, with elaborate descriptions of embroidered silk robes, ornate hairpieces, and shimmering accessories that reflect the characters' statuses and the opulence of the celestial court. These vivid portrayals of attire not only enhance the visual splendor of the setting but also underscore themes of identity, transformation, and the societal expectations placed upon individuals. Through its blend of myth, romance, and high fashion, the novel offers a captivating exploration of personal growth and the enduring bonds of family.

8. The Gilded Wolves by Roshani Chokshi

​The Gilded Wolves by Roshani Chokshi is a dazzling historical fantasy set in an alternate 1889 Paris, where a diverse group of gifted misfits embarks on a high-stakes heist to reclaim a powerful artifact. The novel immerses readers in a world where magic and technology intertwine, and the opulence of La Belle Époque is vividly brought to life. Fashion plays a significant role in this richly imagined setting, with elaborate descriptions of attire that reflect the characters' identities and the societal structures they navigate. From silk gowns adorned with taffeta lilies to accessories enhanced by magical Forging, clothing becomes a symbol of status, power, and transformation, adding depth to the narrative's exploration of themes like colonialism and cultural appropriation.