New Book
Dressing the Story
The Art of Costume Design — by Debra McGuire with Jim Stark
A first-hand look at nearly fifty years of costume design, told through the films, television series, and collaborations that shaped a generation of on-screen storytelling.
On Tour
Upcoming Events
Readings, screenings, and signings for Dressing the Story. New dates are added regularly.
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22Jun
June 22, 2026
Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgundy screening, followed by a Q&A with Debra McGuire celebrating her new book, Dressing the Story.
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28Jul
July 28, 2026
Dressing the Story: Reading, Q&A & Signing with Debra McGuire at The Yellow House.
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01Jan
January 1, 2027
More details coming soon.
About the Book
Five decades of dressing characters audiences never forget.
"Debra McGuire is a genius. She has dressed almost every project I have ever done. The clothes always feel so right that you don't even notice them — and that is the highest compliment a costume designer can receive."
A career told through wardrobe
Dressing the Story traces Debra McGuire's path from painter and fashion designer to one of the most prolific costume designers working today. It is part memoir, part visual reference, and part inside-the-room account of how characters get dressed for the screen.
The work, in her own words
From the ten-season run of Friends to the polished world of The Morning Show, from Anchorman and Superbad to long collaborations with David Mamet and Judd Apatow, Debra walks through the choices, fittings, and conversations that shaped a generation of on-screen characters.
Craft, collaboration, and creative process
The book is also an honest portrait of the people behind the work — directors, actors, and the dedicated crews Debra credits as essential partners in bringing every visual world to life.
Praise
Endorsements
"Debra McGuire is a genius. She has dressed almost every project I have ever done. The clothes always feel so right that you don't even notice them — and that is the highest compliment a costume designer can receive."
"Debra brings an artist's eye and a storyteller's instinct to every character she dresses. Working with her is a gift."
"She doesn't just design costumes — she builds people. Every fitting feels like a conversation about who the character really is."
"Debra's work has shaped some of the most iconic looks in modern television and film. This book is long overdue."
About the Author
Debra McGuire
Debra McGuire is an award-winning fine artist, fashion designer, and costume designer whose work spans film, television, and theatre. She is best known for her ten seasons designing Friends and her long-standing collaborations with David Mamet, including the Emmy-nominated film Phil Spector.
Debra currently designs for Jennifer Aniston on The Morning Show and has shaped the on-screen look of many of the most-loved comedies and dramas of the past three decades.
Available for Pre-order
Get your copy of Dressing the Story
Choose your edition below. Signed copies will be available at in-person events.