The Best Coffee Table Books to Buy Right Now

Price: $100
Where to Buy It: SSENSE

Jewelry and hip-hop are intrinsically linked. Their symbiotic relationship began at the advent of the genre, and continues to be a staple for rappers and musicians alike. It’s a mode of creative expression and even more simply, a way to stunt on your competitors. From the chunky, gold dookie chains that emerged in the 1980s to bustdown watches and elaborate grills made popular in the 2000s, Ice Cold: A Hip-Hop Jewelry History is a visual tour of hip-hop’s favorite accessories.

Price: $19.29
Where to Buy It: Amazon

A shameless plug? Maybe. But seriously, Sneaker of the Year: The Best Since '85 is the definitive history of the greatest sneakers we’ve ever witnessed. Written by the names you know and trust in the space, you’ll get the full story on your favorite sneakers from Air Jordan 1s to Adidas Yeezys.

Price: $34.99
Where to Buy It: Amazon

Hip-hop photography heavyweights including Jeanette Beckman, Jamel Shabazz, and Ernie Paniccioli bring their work together for Fresh, Fly, Fabulous: 50 Years of Hip Hop Style. The book serves as a documentary of the genre’s ever-evolving style seen through the lens of those experiencing it firsthand. You’ll find original photography from the aforementioned names, as well as a forward from rapper Slick Rick and a stealthy examination of key style pieces essential to hip-hop like clothing, sneakers, nails, and hair. 

Price: $40.99
Where to Buy It: Amazon

Kyle Ng and Ed Davis strived to create something more than just a brand when founding the LA design collective, Brain Dead in 2014. With a collaboration roster filled with artists, musicians, filmmakers, and more, it has set itself apart from other emerging brands through its unique perspective and edge. Brain Dead: Clothing for a Curious Life details the brand’s infancy and the creative group of collaborators they’ve worked with since. 

Price: $75
Where to Buy It: END.

New York jeweler “Famous” Eddie Plein is considered a legend for inventing gold fronts. He’s been making grills since the 1980s with a life story that was left untold until meeting filmmaker Lyle Lindgren. Mouth Full Of Golds serves as Plein’s autobiography, as well as a detailed history of blingy mouthpieces with personal accounts from A$AP Rocky, Marc Jacobs, Va$htie, and more. 

Price: $52
Where to Buy It: A24

A24 has been the king of movie merch since the release of Uncut Gems back in 2019. Its collaborations since have been unmatched. Working with brands like Online Ceramics and Brain Dead, it’s clear they’re tapped into who’s hot. It only makes sense they published For Promotional Use Only, a fun, statement book showing off Hollywood’s most interesting artifacts over the years. Get a look at a Clue crewneck, Being John Malkovich nesting dolls, a Godzilla fleshlight, and even more bizarre finds. 

Price: $30
Where to Buy It: Amazon

Most people are given their first piece of nameplate jewelry during childhood as markers of their identity and culture from family members or close friends. They’re often overlooked as pieces of art. Writers Marcel Rosa-Salas and Isabel Attyah Flower are looking to rectify that. The Nameplate digs into the jewelry’s multifaceted history, and features words from scholars and cultural figures, as well as archival photos.  

Price: $13.99
Where to Buy It: Amazon

If you follow Shea Serrano on Twitter, you’ll know his fervor for music, pop culture, and basketball is beyond comparison. That’s what makes his first book, The Rap Year Book, an essential read for rap nerds. It’s a funny, discussion-fueled examination of the best rap songs every year since the dawn of the genre. You’ll learn the complexities of artists’ lives, the key players behind the scenes, and probably even get some evidence to fund your personal GOAT discussions. 

Price: $120
Where to Buy It: Bergdorf Goodman

Published just under a year after his death, Louis Vuitton: Virgil Abloh chronicles the late designer’s trailblazing career at the French fashion house. It’s littered with personal accounts from his confidants and peers including names like Kid Cudi, Naomi Campbell, NIGO®, and more, making it an essential piece that digs deeper into Abloh’s legacy.