Synopsis This biography concerns the life and career of Gabrielle "Coco" Chanel. Details include Chanel's tragic childhood as an orphan, the opening of her first boutique in 1910, and the founding of the House of Chanel. The author praises Chanel for revolutionizing women's fashion with her inventions of sportswear, "the little black dress," costume jewelry, and her perfume, which was cherished by the legendary actress Marilyn Monroe.
While Coco Chanel is perhaps best known today for her enduring (and alluring) fragrance Chanel No. 5, Axel Madsen's engaging biography shows that her influence on 20th century life extends far past an aroma. Chanel learned to sew in a Catholic orphanage, and worked as a shop girl before finding success as a designer. She pioneered simple, elegant style and wardrobe, such as the "little black dress," which she is credited with popularizing. Chanel became one of the most significant figures in "haute couture," but her extraordinary life was not untouched by controversy. During World War II, she had an affair with a Nazi spy and was charged in an alleged attempt to spy on Winston Churchill. Madsen's account is filled with fascinating details from Chanel's public and professional life, and will likely be the definitive biography of one of the defining figures of her age.
| Details | | Publication Date: | 1990-04-01 |
Publisher's Note Chronicles Gabrielle Chanel's remarkable climb from poverty to the forefront of the international fashion industry and explores her illustrious collection of friends and lovers.
| See an error? Submit a change request |