No one quite matches Alex Aster's book-tour style.

      "For my fifth time on Good Morning America (a true dream come true!), I tried my best to coordinate my outfit with this dazzling Oscar de la Renta minidress. Their designs are incredibly detailed and whimsical. This dress in particular reminds me of the magical ball scene from the book, with gowns crafted from beautiful metals and other stunning materials!" (Image credit: Alex Aster)

      Alex Aster, the bestselling author of the immensely popular young adult fantasy series Emblem Island and Lightlark, surprised her dedicated fans with the announcement of her latest novel, Starside, in September. While it was already known that a Barbie fantasy novel was upcoming (Barbie: Dreamscape, releasing this August), even her agent was unaware in the early stages that Aster was secretly working on her next major project—a 500-page adult romantasy novel featuring a young woman named Aris who enters a perilous competition to obtain a magical sword for revenge against the gods.

      This news is exciting for two reasons: it provides us with an exhilarating new read just in time for spring break and promises yet another stylish book tour from Aster. If you're familiar with her tours, you know that the author approaches them like a rolling red carpet, carefully selecting outfits that reflect the aesthetic, themes, and characters of her latest work, often with hidden surprises for attentive fans. We love a good method dresser.

      Such a meticulous approach requires serious planning. Even before excitement began to build around Starside, Aster was already exploring the internet and planning her looks. Expect an abundance of silver, sparkles, and some chain mail inspired by Aris. Here, Aster shares her process with us.

      "I always aim to align my outfits with my books during release week. Since Starside's cover features mainly silver with a blue sheen, I opted for a navy two-piece suit from Oscar de la Renta for my appearance on The Drew Barrymore Show. The oversized golden buttons reminded me of the gold willow tree from one of the scenes in the book!" (Image credit: Alex Aster)

      You have maintained a fashion theme throughout your book tours. How did you decide on your looks for Starside? Starside revolves around sword magic, with silver being the most prestigious of the high metals. I knew early on that it would have a silver cover, which meant silver attire! I also wanted to incorporate elements reminiscent of chain mail since a knight is one of the central characters.

      If you had to sum up your Starside wardrobe in three words, what would they be? Starry, whimsical, and metallic.

      Given your thoughtful approach, how early do you start planning outfits, and what does that process involve? Do you collaborate with a stylist or do it yourself? Most days, I'm in my office writing from early morning until late at night, usually in sweatpants or pajamas. Yet, I love fashion and celebrating my book launches through my outfits is something I eagerly anticipate. As soon as I know the color of a new book's cover, I begin to brainstorm outfits for the tour and promotion. While it could be considered marketing, it's truly just a passion of mine, providing a little break from writing. The process of finding outfits typically starts about a year before the publication date, continuing until the first promotional appearance.

      "Even though I have a great fondness for Oscar de la Renta and have been privileged to wear their pieces for my last three book launches, when I first saw this Prada mesh dress, it instantly reminded me of Starside. The mesh reflects a knight’s chain mail, while the crystals evoke the sparkling and perilous world of Starside." (Image credit: Alex Aster)

      "Once again in Oscar de la Renta—this time featuring a navy minidress and matching coat." (Image credit: Alex Aster)

      What are some unexpected factors you consider when putting together looks for a book tour? Whether or not I can sit down in the dress! Many of my book-launch events are also signings, which typically require sitting for extended periods. I was fortunate to wear an Oscar de la Renta dress made of metal for the launch of Summer in the City last year, only to realize a few days beforehand that it would be impossible to sit in it. Now, I usually sign at a bar-height table so I can remain standing! It also facilitates better interaction with readers.

      Are there any Starside references hidden in your outfits? For the launch of Skyshade, I wore a custom Clio Peppiatt dress that featured a clue to the secret bonus Lightlark book as part of its design. It ended up being on the back of the dress, and no one figured it out! Since then, I haven't incorporated many Easter eggs into my clothing choices apart from color. However, I can share that I already know the color of my next project... and it’s red! So I've begun gathering pieces for that.

      Looking back at previous