If you have ever wondered why Gabrielle Chanel has long been regarded as the epitome of style then look no further than the current exhibition at the National Gallery of Victoria – Gabrielle Chanel. Fashion Manifesto curated by the Palais Galliera, Paris featuring more than 100 fashion works together with jewellery, accessories, cosmetics and perfumes. Make no mistake – here lies a feast for your eyes and dreams.
In the 1920s and 1930s Chanel’s style came to the fore, exhibiting refined uncluttered elegance. Comfort, simplicity and ease of movement became the hallmarks of her creations that spoke to a modern lifestyle.
Patrimoine de CHANEL, Paris Photo © Julien T Hamon
Chanel swept away the style of the Belle Epoque with streamlined modernity that embodied feminine chic as relevant today as in the 1920s.
Museum for Kunst und Gewerbe Ham
The creation of suits saw the introduction of textured wool and tweed. Vogue Paris announced: ‘Every suit holds the secrets of Chanel Luxury. And this luxury is in the details’.
Presented the The Art Foundation of Victoria by Mrs Angela Wood, Member 2000 CHANEL, Paris (couture house)
But it’s the evening wear in this exhibition that will stop you in your tracks. The gowns could be worn today! Show me one that you wouldn’t adore and admire. They all possess the ‘stunning factor’.
Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences, Sydney Purchased 1996 Image: GRACIE
Elegance and sophistication is front and centre. The sheer timelessness of the designs is staggering.
Image: GRACIE
This Chanel Evening dress, spring-summer 1933 is totally striking. Flattering in its neck-line and echoing the centre-front bow with the back closure lacing, the gown floats to the floor in graceful style. Totally dream worthy.
NGV Purchased with fund donated by Kystyna Campbell-Pretty AM and Family
through the Australian Government’s Cultural Gift Program, 2021 Photo: Narelle Wilson, NGV
Accessories joined the collection with the launch of the quilted 2.55 bag in February 1955. Styled with a chain link strap, to be carried by hand or over the shoulder. The two-tone slingback moderate-heel shoe followed in 1957 designed to lengthen the leg with the introduction of beige leather, and a black toe to give the appearance of a small foot.
R. 2.55 bag between 1954 and 1971 quilted lambskin, gilt metal
Patrimoine de CHANEL, Paris
In 1921 Chanel expanded her vision of the modern woman by creating her signature fragrance CHANEL No 5 (her lucky number). The presentation was restrained and sedate, reflecting her simplistic and minimalist style. As well, she developed a make-up line and some of the items were scented with CHANEL No 5 perfume.
R. Lipstick 1929 bakelite enamelled metal, Lipstick scented, bakelite nickel chrome
Patrimoine de CHANEL, Paris
The jewellery and belts in the exhibition are not to be missed. Chanel took costume jewellery to a new level. Combining real and faux gemstones, pearls and metals in a wide variety of forms she embraced religious as well as floral and exotic motives.
One of Chanel’s greatest trademarks has been the iconic Little Black Dress. To learn more about this legacy, watch the NGV video by clicking here.
Patrimoine de CHANEL, Paris
From her glittering costume jewellery designs, through to the instantly recognisable Chanel suit and the creation of the Little Black Dress, the Chanel look has survived all the dictates of fashion built on poise, simplicity and good taste.
The NGV’s ‘Gabriel Chanel: Fashion Manifesto’ exhibition is running from December 4 to April 26. You can purchase tickets here.