Synopses & Reviews
No single designer has had as tremendous a hold on style in the twentieth century as Coco Chanel. In this sumptuous, profusely illustrated book, Janet Wallach shows readers Chanel style in all its glory--from the fabulous fashions she created to the glamorous life she led.
Like a character in a fairy tale, Coco Chanel rose from being an ordinary seamstress to reigning as the queen of fashion. Chanel was stunningly independent, beautifully feminine, and irresistibly desirable to men; most important, she was never afraid to be herself. A pioneer in an industry dominated by men, she turned her style into the revolutionary chic that set her fashions apart. Borrowing copiously from the wardrobes of her illustrious lovers (among them the Duke of Westminter and Grand Duke Dimitri of Russia), Chanel took trousers, tweeds, riding clothes, cuff links, and even neckties, and cleverly transformed them into elegant women's wear. With an understanding that only a female designer could have, she eased women's formerly confining way of dressing, adapting the freedom of men's clothing without sacrificing sensuality and femininity. Since then, women who seek the look of authority and supreme taste have embraced Chanel.
Fans of her couture will devour all the delectable stories behind such Chanel trademarks as fabulous fake pearls, minimalist hats, comfortable and beautifully structured suits, and legendary perfumes, and will marvel at the 150 astonishing photographs and illustrations. A delightful feast of pictures and words as stylish and elegant as the designer herself, Chanel Style celebrates the woman, the look, and the legend.
Synopsis
In the years around World War I, Chanel challenged the world of fashion head on. Jersey knit fabrics, easy to wear garments based on men's sportswear, showy costume jewelry and the little black dress are just a few of her innovations that have become fashion staples. In this lavishly illustrated book, for the first time the focus is on Chanel the couturière and her immense influence on the way women choose to look in the modern world. Using previously unpublished material from the Chanel archive and the Victoria and Albert Museum's Dress Collection, Chanel is seen up close: her career, her style, her workroom, her customers, and her rivals. The final chapter is based on an interview with Karl Lagerfeld who took over the designing of the line with astounding success and continues to make it fresh for new generations of clients, often by interpreting Chanel's signature designs with great wit and panache.
The business as well as the art of high fashion are thoroughly chronicled, including the dissemination of a look, the marketing of the world's most successful perfume, and the building of an international name. As exciting as a front row seat at a couture show, this is a compelling look at the world of one of the indisputable geniuses of twentieth century fashion.
Synopsis
This unique look at the origins and evolution of the House of Chanel, founded by Gabrielle "Coco" Chanel", includes commentary not only on clothes, but on accessories, jewelry, cosmetics, and perfumes of each collection. Color and b&w illustrations.