Best Beauty Coffee Table Books

Seeking inspiration for a client’s new hairstyle or fresh makeup look often requires digging through endless images on Pinterest or scouring countless videos on YouTube — but if you’re looking for a fanciful reference that will terminate the tech and fit in perfectly among the mountains of magazines in your studio, look no further than these five stunning books. Perfect for clients to browse and enjoy, these literary gems, written by bloggers, artists and television stars, are an ode to the breathtaking magic of makeup (and hair styling), and to their ultimate transformative powers.

The Makeup Artist Handbook: Techniques for Film, Television, Photography and Theatre
by Gretchen Davis and Mindy Hall

This full-color tome is a treasure trove of techniques for cutting-edge makeup looks inspired by computer-generated movies, black-and-white films, theatre productions and even television commercials. Including information on everything from brow design to Hollywood hairstyles, it’s packed with insider secrets for aspiring or professional makeup artists. From lip scrubs to color theory, this reference guide was written by Academy Award-winning makeup artist Mindy Hall, along with freelance television makeup artist Gretchen Davis, whose combined credits have included such films as “Pearl Harbor,” “Rent,” and “The Nanny Diaries.” Click here to purchase.

Face to Face: Amazing New Looks and Inspiration from the Top Celebrity Makeup Artistry
by Scott Barnes and Alyssa Giacobbe

Brimming with glossy and gorgeous pictures of superstars like Kim Kardashian and Vanessa Williams, this makeup guide offers practical tips for transforming from day to night or going all-out glam. With tips on tools and skincare must-haves, this is the perfect book for browsing before getting ready for a delicious date night or an exciting event. Written by sought-after celebrity makeup artist Scott Barnes and Alyssa Giacobbe, this book will inspire fun and playful makeup experimentation that is bound to leave pulses racing — and glamazons swooning with jealousy. Click here to purchase.

Lauren Conrad Beauty
by Lauren Conrad and Elise Loehnen Photo Credit: Steve Erle

Covering everything from fitness and food to skin care and stress, the “Laguna Beach” star’s guide to beauty feels relaxed and causal but still fun and young. It’s the ultimate guide for breezy beauty advice, from popping pimples to styling party hair. With stunning pictures of Conrad herself posed in ethereal dresses and vamp-y lipstick, this book works as a coffee table staple for its skim-and-scan accessibility and loads of illustrated step-by-step guides.

One of the most fascinating aspects of the book is when Conrad shares her personal photos, like in the pages dedicated to her "beauty evolution," which includes glamour shots, bad bleach jobs and crimped junior high hairstyles. If you're searching for the perfect gift for the young makeup maven or aspiring beauty pro in your life, this chic lifestyle guide is the ideal buy. Click here to purchase.

Cupcakes and Cashmere: A Guide for Defining Your Style, Reinventing Your Space and Entertaining with Ease
by Emily Schuman

Frothy fashion blogger Emily Schuman fills this shabby chic-esque book with decorating and entertaining tips, including ideas for arranging flowers, preparing party foods and even turning out a fully furnished liquor cart. Schuman’s lifestyle blog, “Cupcakes and Cashmere,” attracts readers for its sensible, down-to-earth advice on everything from lucking onto stylish flea market finds to refurbishing nightstands. Enjoy this book for the same sugar-sweet style tips and cozy cache of adorable ideas. Organized by season, and containing an assortment of unique DIY projects and recipes, this book is bound to become a coffee table staple. Click here to purchase.

Good to Great Hair: Celebrity Hairstyling Techniques Made Simple
by Robert Vetica

With secrets and short cuts to stylish hair, this book offers tips on tools and tricks for achieving everything from up-dos to sleek and soft waves. Written by celebrity coiffure Robert Vetica, who styles the likes of Salma Hayek, Jennifer Lopez and Mariah Carey, this book is divided into three parts: treating hair, cutting and styling hair, and choosing the right hair for your personal look and style. Tired of your same style, cut or color? This book is the perfect muse for anyone longing for a mane makeover. Click here to purchase.