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Madly Marvelous : The Costumes of The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel
"Step into the wardrobe of The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, the Golden Globe and Emmy Award-winning series from Amazon Prime Video set in the late 1950s about a young Manhattan housewife whose life taken an unexpected turn when she discovers she has a gift for stand-up comedy. Costume designer Donna Zakowska reveals her early sketches, fitting photos, and finished costumes in this survey of spectacular looks from the show's initial seasons. Explore the array of outfits that accompany the marvelous "Midge" on her journey from a seemingly perfect life on the Upper West Side to Paris to summer in the Catskills, and from her first performances in Greenwich Village to a glamorous tour with stops in Las Vegas, Miami, and New York's Apollo Theater. With a nuanced color palette and bold style, Zakowska's award-winning costumes pop onscreen and off the page, and set a fashionable tone for this witty, brash, and poignant comedy."
304 pages, Hardcover
Published November 30, 2021
20 people are currently reading
229 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
June 22, 2022
I usually don’t review the coffee table books I check out from the library because I’m only flipping through them for some beautiful photography. But this book: wow! I don’t even watch the show, although I have seen a few episodes and understand the basic plot. But if you love clothes and the history of clothing and especially the way garments can be used to tell a story or reveal insights into a character, this is for you. I was blown away by the beautiful details and the thoughtfulness given to every stitch and seam, how color and shape are used to convey emotions.
December 20, 2023
God. I miss this show so much already, thanks to this book I got to relive it just a little bit. I just wish it had a companion book about the last two seasons which I think also had incredible costuming (duh).
This book is so inspiring and I just love to have a look into what costume design means and what good costume design is. By someone who truly loves their craft.
This book is so inspiring and I just love to have a look into what costume design means and what good costume design is. By someone who truly loves their craft.
December 25, 2021
this was so interesting! ive always loved this show, and really admired the costuming, so going behind the scenes with donna zakowska was the absolute coolest. seeing how much precision and detail goes into the costumes of even the extras in the show was almost unfathomable– every tiny detail is meticulously planned and executed and is incredibly purposeful and intentional. every coat, scarf and hat has so much depth and meaning! the tone of the book is informal, and easy to follow along with, and the pictures of the design process – drawing, fabrics, fittings and finally the finished products on screen – were such lovely additions to donna's words. i also absolutely loved seeing the historical details behind the costumes, and the insane level of research into 50's fashion took place before the design process could even begin! i'd really recommend the book to anyone interested in the show or in period-specific costuming - 5/5 stars!
November 30, 2021
11/27/2021 Full review tk at TheFrumiousConsortium.net.
11/30/2021 The Marvelous Mrs Maisel has long been on the list of shows I'd watch if I had more time in my life, so I was immensely grateful to receive this book so I could make the time to watch at least the pilot episode.
Even as someone unfamiliar with the show, I've long been a fan of the costuming: when Bergdorf Goodman had the coat sale inspired by the show, I was sorely tempted, even though my signature winter coat is Arsene Wenger's full-length puffy Arsenal jacket, lol. And while I do tend to the practical when it comes to dressing, I do have a weakness for materials that flow and for bright colors and patterns: 100% a result of my Malaysian upbringing and my very elegant mother. Who, like the titular Mrs Maisel's mother, is also named Rose!
So what an absolute joy this book was for me, especially once I'd familiarized myself with the basics of the show by watching the pilot and getting a feel for not only the characters but also the general aesthetic. Even before delving into the nitty gritty of this lovely volume, I was dead impressed by the care taken in the show to stick to the 1950s' New York vibe. The costuming plays a HUGE part in this, and Donna Zakowska has rightfully won (tho, in my opinion, not enough) awards for her work making sure everyone looks period-appropriate.
And not just period- but also character-appropriate. Tho it isn't stated explicitly in the pilot, the series' eponymous heroine Midge Maisel (and, to a lesser but just as obvious extent, her #1 supporter Susie) is the kind of woman who dons clothing like a camouflaging armor. Midge dresses differently for the Upper West Side than she does for Greenwich Village, always looking stylish but never out-of-place. The book delves into why this is, and whisked me away on a magical journey through not only the pilot but also the rest of the episodes of the next few seasons -- so you might want to leave this volume for later if you wish to avoid even the mild spoilers included here.
Of course, if you're already a fan who's seen all the episodes and are craving a TMMM fix, this is the perfect book for satisfying that, with gorgeous set photos as well as behind the scenes snaps of the actors modeling test pieces. It's also a great book for anyone with an interest in costume design or fashion, as Ms Zakowska writes wonderfully about her art. And if you, like me and Mrs Maisel, believe that clothes are an expression of your personality, and especially if you love the silhouettes and fabrics of 1950s, then I can't recommend this gorgeous art book highly enough.
Madly Marvelous: The Costumes Of The Marvelous Mrs Maisel by Donna Zakowska was published today November 30 2021 by Abrams and is available from all good booksellers, including Bookshop!
11/30/2021 The Marvelous Mrs Maisel has long been on the list of shows I'd watch if I had more time in my life, so I was immensely grateful to receive this book so I could make the time to watch at least the pilot episode.
Even as someone unfamiliar with the show, I've long been a fan of the costuming: when Bergdorf Goodman had the coat sale inspired by the show, I was sorely tempted, even though my signature winter coat is Arsene Wenger's full-length puffy Arsenal jacket, lol. And while I do tend to the practical when it comes to dressing, I do have a weakness for materials that flow and for bright colors and patterns: 100% a result of my Malaysian upbringing and my very elegant mother. Who, like the titular Mrs Maisel's mother, is also named Rose!
So what an absolute joy this book was for me, especially once I'd familiarized myself with the basics of the show by watching the pilot and getting a feel for not only the characters but also the general aesthetic. Even before delving into the nitty gritty of this lovely volume, I was dead impressed by the care taken in the show to stick to the 1950s' New York vibe. The costuming plays a HUGE part in this, and Donna Zakowska has rightfully won (tho, in my opinion, not enough) awards for her work making sure everyone looks period-appropriate.
And not just period- but also character-appropriate. Tho it isn't stated explicitly in the pilot, the series' eponymous heroine Midge Maisel (and, to a lesser but just as obvious extent, her #1 supporter Susie) is the kind of woman who dons clothing like a camouflaging armor. Midge dresses differently for the Upper West Side than she does for Greenwich Village, always looking stylish but never out-of-place. The book delves into why this is, and whisked me away on a magical journey through not only the pilot but also the rest of the episodes of the next few seasons -- so you might want to leave this volume for later if you wish to avoid even the mild spoilers included here.
Of course, if you're already a fan who's seen all the episodes and are craving a TMMM fix, this is the perfect book for satisfying that, with gorgeous set photos as well as behind the scenes snaps of the actors modeling test pieces. It's also a great book for anyone with an interest in costume design or fashion, as Ms Zakowska writes wonderfully about her art. And if you, like me and Mrs Maisel, believe that clothes are an expression of your personality, and especially if you love the silhouettes and fabrics of 1950s, then I can't recommend this gorgeous art book highly enough.
Madly Marvelous: The Costumes Of The Marvelous Mrs Maisel by Donna Zakowska was published today November 30 2021 by Abrams and is available from all good booksellers, including Bookshop!
August 10, 2022
Bumped up from 2 stars because of the gorgeous photographs.
I wanted more information about the design elements of the costumes not just the rough sketches.
I wanted more information about the design elements of the costumes not just the rough sketches.
June 22, 2022
This is a must read if you are a fan of the Marvelous Mrs Maisel. If you've never seen the show I wouldn't really recommend it since Donna (the writer of this book and costume designer of the show) hints at moments in the series while describing the costumes she made for them.
Aside from this the book is lovely, it looks stunning, is perfect to put on display and contains the best images to give you insight about the costume-making-process.
Aside from this the book is lovely, it looks stunning, is perfect to put on display and contains the best images to give you insight about the costume-making-process.
April 26, 2022
I love behind-the-scenes books, and this one is just fabulous. The costumes are such a huge part of the show, and it's interesting to see how they come together and are used in scenes.
January 2, 2024
Includes close up pictures of garments and jewelry used in The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel as well as images of actors in mock-up pieces of costumes.
December 26, 2021
I love to read books that really explore the creative process. When that book is a glossy coffee table book, so much the better! I loved both books about Lin Manuel's musicals: Hamilton Revolution and In the Heights for the way they explained all the thought and meaning behind the music/rap/staging/ book for those two plays/movie.
This book does the same for Mrs. Maisel's costume designer. I love the show and the costumes though have never really given much thought to the meaning behind what the characters wear. Donna Zakowska walks us through the creative decisions behind color, theme, even texture and fabric of wardrobe for the various characters and how that wardrobe reinforces and tells us more about where the characters are in their emotional lives. I found it absolutely fascinating and its chock full of eye candy photographs. My only quibble was that the layout did not do enough to line up a photograph of a particular costume with the story behind it. I was often left searching to look at the costume Donna was describing. Sometimes it did not exist. Bummer! Also, photo captions would have been most welcome. A fabulous book for someone into dress making and period costume.
This book does the same for Mrs. Maisel's costume designer. I love the show and the costumes though have never really given much thought to the meaning behind what the characters wear. Donna Zakowska walks us through the creative decisions behind color, theme, even texture and fabric of wardrobe for the various characters and how that wardrobe reinforces and tells us more about where the characters are in their emotional lives. I found it absolutely fascinating and its chock full of eye candy photographs. My only quibble was that the layout did not do enough to line up a photograph of a particular costume with the story behind it. I was often left searching to look at the costume Donna was describing. Sometimes it did not exist. Bummer! Also, photo captions would have been most welcome. A fabulous book for someone into dress making and period costume.
January 3, 2022
this was so interesting! ive always loved this show, and really admired the costuming, so going behind the scenes with donna zakowska was the absolute coolest. seeing how much precision and detail goes into the costumes of even the extras in the show was almost unfathomable– every tiny detail is meticulously planned and executed and is incredibly purposeful and intentional. every coat, scarf and hat has so much depth and meaning! the tone of the book is informal, and easy to follow along with, and the pictures of the design process – drawing, fabrics, fittings and finally the finished products on screen – were such lovely additions to donna's words. i also absolutely loved seeing the historical details behind the costumes, and the insane level of research into 50's fashion took place before the design process could even begin! i'd really recommend the book to anyone interested in the show or in period-specific costuming - 5/5 stars!
June 12, 2023
For everyone involved, I feel like The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel was a dream project to work on. From writers, actors, set designers, cinematographers, even the extras… EVERYONE was at their A game. This is especially true for Donna Zakowska, costume designer of the show. In the Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, costumes are a character entirely of their own. They help to tell the story and more often than not, all pieces are breathtaking ! Because of the ensembles Zakowska creates, every scene in the show could be printed and framed. When watching the show, it’s apparent that every outfit which appears on screen has been meticulously curated. It’s such a treat to read about Zakowska’s design process and all the little details behind the character’s closets. I’m so happy to own this coffee table book and if any of my boyfriends are reading this plz snag me a piece from Midge’s closet via Marvelous Mrs. Maisel set sales and auctions !!!
April 6, 2022
This book is a work of art. If you love Mrs Maisel and appreciate the fashion on the show this book is a must own. It’s gorgeous.
The book itself is huge, both in length and number of pages.
The pictures are beautiful and the information is so interesting. As much as I love the fashion on this show I had absolutely no idea what all went into it. Basically everything on the show is hand made. No wonder everything is so perfect and flattering on the show.
This book will give you a whole new appreciation for the detailing of the Marvelous Mrs Maisel. I find myself paying more attention to the show now than ever before.
I really can’t state this enough, if you love the fashion of the Marvelous Mrs Maisel this book is an absolute must buy. You won’t regret it :)
The book itself is huge, both in length and number of pages.
The pictures are beautiful and the information is so interesting. As much as I love the fashion on this show I had absolutely no idea what all went into it. Basically everything on the show is hand made. No wonder everything is so perfect and flattering on the show.
This book will give you a whole new appreciation for the detailing of the Marvelous Mrs Maisel. I find myself paying more attention to the show now than ever before.
I really can’t state this enough, if you love the fashion of the Marvelous Mrs Maisel this book is an absolute must buy. You won’t regret it :)
January 18, 2022
Lavishly illustrated, this book gives you a wonderfully detailed look at the costumes for the TV series The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel. Mainly focusing on the main character's extensive late 1950s wardrobe over the first three seasons, costume designer Donna Zakowska gives you the behind-the-secnes info - why she chose particular colours and their meaning for the characters, the inspiration behind the costumes, and fascinating titbits about searching for the right fabric, or where certain pieces were made. The only thing that would have made it better would have been even more of this! Occasionally the text mentioned an outfit where that there wasn't a photograph for, but that's a minor quibble.
July 23, 2024
After only 2 seasons, Midge's iconic pink coat was enshrined in the Smithsonian alongside Dorothy's ruby slippers. Suffice it to say that few TV shows reached such a costuming status in a short time! Madly Marvelous was written by the costumer after the third season of The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel. It shows sketches and fabric samples from the whole wardrobe (not just Midge's). I loved seeing the styles Zakowska drew inspiration from and what she remixed for the show. I'm just a color-hungry reader and the first chapter, "The Madly Marvelous Paintbox," was made to satisfy my longings.
May 30, 2022
This is a “coffee table book” but was full of amazing and awe-inspiring details of the series The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel. The thought that went into the costumes, the research of historic clothing, and the way each color and pattern had themes throughout the show gave a whole new dimension to my favorites series!
Personally, I won’t count this towards my goal of X# of books/year, but I’m glad I read this and enjoyed turning these pages. It felt like scrolling a fashion label’s social media feed, it was so visually stunning and so topic-specific.
Personally, I won’t count this towards my goal of X# of books/year, but I’m glad I read this and enjoyed turning these pages. It felt like scrolling a fashion label’s social media feed, it was so visually stunning and so topic-specific.
February 13, 2022
This book is a must have for all Maisel fans and vintage addicts. The costume designer of the show tells her adventure on the show's set, her creative process, details all the costumes, how they were made, vintage finds and anecdotes. The pictures are stunningly beautiful. It's a bible of 50,s fashion. Loved it through and through and would easily come back to it when in need of vintage fashion ideas
December 19, 2021
This book is killing me ❤️ It’s bold and heavy and beautiful and allowed me to shut out the world for a while, just like its wonderful namesake. It’s for anyone in love with mid century design, fashion, and color and nothing I can say will do it justice except that the title is actually Madly Marvelous: The Costumes of The Marvelous Mrs Maisel…
February 18, 2022
A wonderful look at the artistry and thought process that goes into costuming a successful show. The fashions of the 1950s are luxurious and interpreted by Donna Zakowska with a multitude of subtle (and sometimes not so subtle) hints at the character's persona and inner turmoil. Bravo to her and all her drapers, stitchers, and staff for all their hard work!
September 12, 2022
really enjoyable (and beautiful!) look at all of the care and attention that goes into costuming this show. outside of the pictures, learning about the research and different inspirational sources that go into the costumes was the highlight for me. i would’ve liked to see a little more on the male characters, and hope we get another round of this for the last two seasons
December 26, 2021
This book is an amazing tour backstage to what makes Marvelous Mrs. Maisel the best show today. The attention to detail and subtle messages hidden in every outfit Midge wears are mind-blowing.
If you like history, fashion, and the show, you MUST read this book!
If you like history, fashion, and the show, you MUST read this book!
August 19, 2023
I was able to get this book from my library. It is such a treat and a wonderful opportunity to see the fabulous or should I say "marvelous" clothing the costume designer created for this wonderful show. Besides the photos, I enjoyed the commentary as well.
September 20, 2023
Gorgeous and fascinating. The care and skill that went into the costumes for the show - for principals as well as thousands of extras - is astounding. Many fitting photos are included, and it's interesting to see the actors with a more natural look.
January 6, 2022
Absolutely stunning!
January 13, 2022
Stunningly detailed. I'm a huge fan of the show. A must if you love the show or costume design.
Highly recommended
Highly recommended
February 8, 2022
Phenomenal book. Beautiful photographs sketches, fabrics, finished outfits, test shots and still form the series. The designer explains her reasons for her choices.
April 24, 2022
Great book, so interesting to read about the costume choices and design
July 21, 2022
This is a beautiful book that give you all of the background around each and every outfit. An unbelievable beautiful book from start to finish.
August 19, 2022
This book in hardback costs $50. If I get this new job, Ima buy this book.
It is a deep dive into the costumes of Mrs. Maisel, and I am HERE for it!
It is a deep dive into the costumes of Mrs. Maisel, and I am HERE for it!
December 4, 2022
Love the insider scoop and it’s beautifully curated
June 22, 2023
I loved this series but wish SO much that they had waited to make the book until the series ended. Writing this after season three ended left so much out.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews