Good looking, lavishly illustrated.  Huge amount of information - covers tools and basics for beginners, then launches into 300+ photo step-by-step techniques covering most dressmaking techniques. Small section of homewares and crafty projects at the back.  Useful reference book if you know what you want to make, but not how to do it.

Really clear cut step-by-step line drawings are easy to follow.  Starts with absolute basics (how to sew a seam) to more complex techniques.  A  great go-to book for dressmaking techniques, used by US fashion students.

Haven't read it, but am recommending this clothes-making primer because the author's Sew U Home Stretch was so useful!  Indie fashion designer Wendy Mullin also has a new 2009 book out - Built by Wendy Dresses.

Busy book, full of photos and techniques.  Perhaps not for beginners, this comprehensive reference book details everything from sewing on a button to complex professional bespoke tailoring.

Not for the faint hearted! This manual for learning to illustrate your fashion designs could take you years to work through all the exercises.  For serious students...

Haven't read this yet, but it's on my wish list!  For those who think that dressmaking books only feature unfashionable clothing, this 2009 release from Twinkle designer Wenlan Chia looks very up to date.  Rumours are that it's not for beginners though, with few construction instructions.