Bibliophiles know that sometimes you should judge a book by its cover. When a good cover design meets a good classic, it’s a match made in literary heaven.
These classics collections are so beautiful you’ll want to display them as art as well as read them.
Vintage Classics Austen Series by Vintage Books
These fun and charming watercolor patterned paperbacks were created by illustrator Leanne Shapton. All six versions of Jane Austen’s novels look lovely together. I especially love that the interior flaps of each book showcase the front cover of a different book from the series- as if Austen’s works are in conversation with one another. I own three of these beauties and need to purchase the remaining half of the collection asap.
The Puffin in Bloom Collection from Penguin Random House
I own and love this gorgeous box set of four children’s classics. These colorful hardcovers are illustrated by Anna Bond of Riffle Paper Co fame. The floral patterns and adorable figures are perfectly girly. Even the end papers are too cute for words.
Vintage Classics Bronte Series from Vintage Books
This stunning black and white collection was created to celebrate the 200th anniversary of Charlotte Bronte’s birth. Each of the Bronte sisters is represented in this three book collection which features Charlotte’s Jane Eyre, Emily’s Wuthering Heights, and Anne’s The Tenant of Wildfell Hall. The paperbacks with french flaps were designed in charcoal by Sarah Gillespie, a British landscape artist.
Mr. Boddington’s Classics from Penguin
These six classics were released in 2012 as an Anthropologie exclusive. Designed by Stationery company Mr. Boddington’s Studio, these hardcovers feature unique designs printed on cotton jackets. I own the sunny yellow edition of Jane Eyre. Sadly this collection is no longer sold, though it is possible to track down these beauties from secondhand sellers.
Penguin Clothbound Classics
Penguin really has a corner on the whole beautiful editions of classics market. This series of cloth-wrapped hardcovers is especially popular. Created by award-winning book designer Coralie Bickford-Smith, these editions are beyond stunning. The graphic designs and vivid colors certainly look good on a bookshelf. Now if only someone would gift me the entire collection pleaseandthankyou.
Which collection is your favorite?
Dwell in Possibility 
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