Some basic gift advice for the makeup maven in your life: if you can't remember if she prefers nude lip gloss or bright shimmery coral lipstick, steer clear of buying her cosmetics. A book about makeup would be a much safer choice, while still celebrating her love of the makeup!

For the girl who has everything (from MAC and Sephora, that is), or for the girl who's just starting out in the wonderful world of makeup, there are some fabulous books that make great companions to all their eye shadows and lip glosses. Here are my favorites:

Making Faces by Kevyn Aucoinis informative, fun, and captures the vivacious spirit of the late, great Kevyn. This is my favorite of all Kevyn's books because it provides general tips as well as step-by-step instructions to recreate the gorgeous looks featured in the book. This is for the one on your list who already loves cosmetics and the artistry of makeup.

Bobbi Brown Beauty, 7 years after its original publication, is still the definitive guide to the basic elements of makeup and beauty. A good resource for beginners and experienced mavens alike, this one is especially well-suited to women just building their makeup collection, or those who are stuck in a beauty rut or want to spruce up their everyday look.

Bobbi Brown Teenage Beautyfocuses on simple beauty routines and skincare advice for teens. Bobbi emphasizes the value of your natural beauty, provides sound, useful advice and promotes self-confidence without being preachy. I am happy to report that one very special almost-teen in my family will be receiving this for Christmas. I recently spotted her wearing eyeliner, so I think it is time for her official initiation into the vast world of makeup.

Pretty City New Yorkwritten by my fabulous makeup artist pal Kim Weinstein, is the beauty bible of NYC. When it comes to beauty goods and services in our fair city, Kim knows what time it is, my friends. Heed her advice. This is a fun read and a handy guide for the New Yorker on your list.

Makeup Your Mindby Francois Nars sits at the nexus of makeup and art. We all know and love Nars for his innovative and luxurious looks, and his book does not disappoint, with 63 sets of before and after photos showcasing absolutely gorgeous makeup. Clear acetate overlays on the photos in the book allow you to recreate the looks, but simply admiring them is a treat in itself.