Gabrielle Chanel Fashion Manifesto

The Gabrielle Chanel Fashion Manifesto was an awe inspiring exhibition. The intricacy and meticulousness was undeniable across all the pieces throughout the space. 

Fashion Manifesto started in the Palais Galleria, Paris in 2021 and has since toured across Europe, with the 4th version at the Victoria Albert Museum in London.

The neutral tones and timeless designs are beautifully classic Chanel, however the showstopper pieces, glitter, sequins and brocade, drew me in as soon I laid eyes on the pieces.

The quality of the fabric, the intricate weaving and how they hung, all conveyed elegance and opulence.

The classic black dress made an appearance or reappearance, I should say, and of course as we all know ‘Women who wear black lead colourful lives.’– Neiman Marcus.

A sparkly number can always be worn and will instantly elevate a look in the same way that glitter eyeshadow is always the moment.

The level of embroidery was unmatched and I longed for the opportunity to run my hands across the masterpieces.

The monochromatic dresses stood out as the main attraction, amongst a plethora of dazzling pieces.

Chanels mannequin collection showcased the diverseness across all her pieces, showing there is something for everyone in her collections. 

The Chanel Classic Flap Bag has been an iconic piece since 1929, when it was designed. Traditionally created to be worn as a clutch, the designs were iterated in February 1955 and named 2.55 named after its month and year of creation. The design drew inspiration from solider bags and adopted an arm strap for handsfree use. 

The illustrations speak for themselves; when seen they are instantly recognisable, it is therefore easy to understand how this has translated into  the pieces that have been created. 

Colourful Chanel pieces! I never associated colourful clothing with Chanel as I have mostly seen their monochromatic pieces in boutiques and on the runway. 

I personally opt for 2-piece suits, particularly when I can’t find anything to wear, however a 3-piece suit is so seamless and something I will be looking out for when shopping. It is even easier to style, requiring only accessories to complete the look. 

Chanel channels the art of modesty whilst still expressing personality through colour and texture. 

This was most definitely my favourite space in the exhibition - a double height walk in wardrobe, excerpts from old films on loop and of course the colour coordinated pieces.

An array of colourful tweed jackets! As a self confessed colour addict, this was a haven for me not to mention the never ending pieces in the walk in wardrobe. 

The colour selections here were muted colourful neutrals, with monochromatic cooler tones for those who aren’t a fan of the bright colours, so there was something for everyone!  

Tweed! Exactly what I was anticipating from the moment I set foot in the exhibition.

Chanel No5 is a staple across the brand and still a favourite amongst many women until this day.

Three years later, the Chanel No5 perfume design was reimagined, with the shape believed to be inspired by the Vendome in Paris. 

The No5 perfume, cologne, tanning oil, lotion for women, cologne for women and cologne for men.

The jewellery pieces by Chanel looked very regal and reminded of pieces similar to pieces used by the monarchy.

The pieces reminded of the Dolce & Gabanna Alta Gioielleria Collection, with similar hues of red and green being used.

The floral statement pieces can bring any outfit to life and serves the same purpose of all of Chanels statement pieces. 

To see all the spaces in the Chanel exhibition checkout my reel here and my favourites pieces here.

The exhibition is completely sold out but may be booked if you register or are an existing V&A here.

What is your favourite piece from Chanel and will you be visiting the exhibition, its on till 10/03/24?

If you make it to the exhibition let me know what your favourite feature was.

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