A timeless style for a new kind of woman.
Gabrielle Chanel. Fashion Manifesto is the first UK exhibition dedicated to the work of French couturière, Gabrielle ‘Coco’ Chanel, charting the evolution of her iconic design style and the establishment of the House of CHANEL, from the opening of her first millinery boutique in Paris in 1910 to the showing of her final collection in 1971.
Step into the Timeless World of Coco Chanel at the V&A
Ladies and gentlemen, fashion enthusiasts of all ages, get ready to be transported into the captivating world of Gabrielle ‘Coco’ Chanel. The V&A unveiled “Gabrielle Chanel. Fashion Manifesto,” the first-ever UK exhibition dedicated to the iconic French couturière whose influence continues to shape the way we dress today.
This spectacular exhibition traces the evolution of Coco Chanel‘s unparalleled design style, from her humble beginnings opening her first millinery boutique in Paris in 1910 to the grand finale of her career in 1971. With nearly 200 stunning looks gathered for the first time in history, along with accessories, perfumes, and jewelry, this showcase promises to be a fashion lover’s dream come true.
The House of CHANEL Reimagined
This exhibition, based on the successful Gabrielle Chanel. Fashion Manifesto exhibition organized by the Palais Galliera, Fashion Museum of the City of Paris, has been reimagined by the V&A, featuring over 100 new objects, including a staggering 60 new looks. It’s not only a celebration of Chanel’s timeless designs but also a tribute to the groundbreaking work of this legendary designer.
Visitors will have the chance to explore rarely seen pieces from the V&A’s collection, along with exquisite looks from the Palais Galliera and the Patrimoine de CHANEL, the heritage collections of the House of CHANEL in Paris. Highlights include an iconic Chanel garment from 1916, costumes designed by Chanel for the Ballets Russes production of Le Train Bleu in 1924, outfits worn by Hollywood stars Lauren Bacall and Marlene Dietrich, and ensembles from Chanel’s final collection in 1971.
V&A exhibition “Gabrielle Chanel. Fashion Manifesto,”
Coco Chanel: A Pioneer Ahead of Her Time
Coco Chanel designed with a vision – not just for the women of her era but for the modern woman, one who was independent, active, and stylish. Through ten themed sections, this exhibition dives deep into Chanel’s innovative approach to fabric, silhouette, and construction. Her creations laid the foundation for a new era of fashion in the 20th century, redefining the concept of elegance.
From her early days as a milliner to her iconic little black dresses and British-inspired tweed ensembles, Coco Chanel’s influence is evident throughout the exhibition. She was a trailblazer who anticipated the needs and desires of women and designed clothing that empowered them.
Chanel’s Iconic Contributions
As you journey through the exhibition, you’ll explore key elements of Chanel’s legacy:
Towards A New Elegance: Discover Chanel’s early career as a milliner and how it led to her expansion into clothing. Minimalism and precision characterized her designs, setting her apart from the ornate fashion of her time.
The Emergence of a Style: Explore Chanel’s signature style, marked by clean lines, fluid materials, and a simplistic color palette that offered both practicality and elegance. This section also delves into her use of textiles and British influences.
The Invisible Accessory: Learn about the creation and impact of Chanel’s iconic perfume, N°5, and her foray into makeup and skincare.
Luxury and Line: Explore Chanel’s eveningwear, characterized by inventiveness, classicism, and an emphasis on the female form.
Closing the House: Witness the impact of World War II on Chanel’s personal and professional life and her triumphant return to fashion in 1954.
The Suit: Marvel at the defining garment of Chanel’s post-war era, the Chanel suit, which remains a timeless classic.
Chanel Codes: Discover how accessories were fundamental to Chanel’s vision of a harmonious silhouette, including the iconic Chanel 2.55 handbag and two-tone slingback shoes.
Into the Evening: Explore Chanel’s eveningwear collections from the late 1950s onwards, characterized by richly decorative fabrics and intricate patterns.
Costume Jewellery: Learn about Chanel’s distinctive costume jewelry that challenged conventions and became a hallmark of her style.
A Timeless Allure: Conclude your journey with Chanel’s evening dress collections, showcasing her continuous refinement of her quintessential style until her final collection in 1971.
Don’t Miss the Timeless Allure
The exhibition runs from September 16, 2023, to February 25, 2024. Tickets are available from £24, with concessions at £16. Be sure to grab your chance to step into the world of Coco Chanel and witness the legacy of a woman whose designs continue to inspire and influence fashion today.
As Coco Chanel herself said, “Fashion is not something that exists in dresses only. Fashion is in the sky, in the street; fashion has to do with ideas, the way we live, what is happening.”
So, whether you’re a fashion aficionado, a history buff, or simply appreciate timeless elegance, make your way to the V&A and experience the magic of Gabrielle Chanel. Fashion Manifesto – a journey through style, innovation, and the enduring impact of one of the greatest fashion icons of all time.
Gabrielle Chanel. Fashion Manifesto
Exhibition presented in partnership with Palais Galliera, Fashion Museum of the City of Paris,
Paris Musées
With the support of CHANEL
The Sainsbury Gallery
16 September 2023 – 25 February 2024
Costumes for Le Train Bleu, by Gabrielle Chanel, 1924. Museum no. S.837-1980. © CHANEL / Photo: Nicholas Alan Cope / Courtesy of Victoria and Albert Museum, London
