From Rear Window to White Christmas, Blue Hawaii to Roman Holiday, Edith Head’s costumes have been my favorite part of old Hollywood movies. They are the second cast member in the shot and the ornamental piece that transforms the actor on the screen from a regular person into an enchanting character. The brilliant Edith Head was responsible for some of the most iconic and glamorous film looks in all of Hollywood history, and I’ve been a big fan of hers for years – which is why I’m surprised I don’t have a coffee table book dedicated to her work!

Well, that will likely change as I’ve recently discovered this book that goes into the details of her fifty-year career as a costume designer. Full of sketches and behind-the-scenes photographs, it’s a fun way to remember and recall the incredible work of the costume icon. And I’ve got my eye on this other book too, which is a broader and more comprehensive encyclopedia of the work of many famous costume designers. Wouldn’t it be a fun way to pass an afternoon? Cozied up with a book of the most glamorous and inspiring costumes ever made? I like to think so!

What coffee table books would you like to read or own? Share with me in the comments below!

Book cover courtesy of Amazon.