The holiday clock is ticking, and you still have people to buy presents for. We’re here to tell you not to panic! It’s time to talk about our coffee table book gift guide. There are so many beautiful, personal options you can tailor to everyone on your list. And you won’t have to worry about shipping.
For the homebody, why not give them the gift of inspiration? A great design book does double duty as decor and innovation. There are few designers who I’m more inspired by, and like following on Instagram more, than David Netto. His self-titled coffee table book is a masterclass in imaginative details and everyday luxury. And speaking of Instagram, Athena Calderon’s Live Beautiful makes every room prettier.
Fashion lends itself particularly well to beautiful books, and there have been a few show stopping ones the last year. The best-dressed woman you know probably thinks Carolyn Bessette is the ultimate best-dressed, and she’s not wrong. Carolyn Bessette Kennedy: A Life in Fashion is a fascinating look into the woman, and the wardrobe, behind the paparazzi pics. Few people in fashion have created a stronger or more timeless brand than Ralph Lauren, and his Way of Living book is perfect for the person who can’t get enough of their cable-knit sweaters.
When in doubt, there are a few things that will always make people smile. Like the smiley face! This 50 year history of the Smiley Face from Assouline in its signature yellow will be a cheery spot in any one’s home. In a less literal take, George Lange’s Picture of Joy is a great book to flip through when you’ve had a tough day.
Shop the rest of our coffee table book gift guide below:
All of our recommendations are curated by Susan & the In The Groove editorial team. In some, but not all cases, we receive a small commission for leading you to what, how, and where to buy all this wonderful stuff.