Chanel: The Couturiere at Work, by Amy De La Haye and Shelley Tobin, (Overlook Press, 2009) is a new reprint of the original book published in 2004.  This book focuses on the  innovations in and influence on the fashion industry of the acclaimed designer, Gabrielle “Coco” Chanel. 

Chanel’s fashion designs in the 1920s and 30s were considered cutting edge.  Though today they may seem demure, in Chanel’s time they were a huge departure from the established style of French society.  Her simple, but elegant, designs reflected the aspirations of women and their changing lives.  Chanel brought the little black dress, the iconic Chanel suit, bell bottoms, and one of the most popular perfumes in history (Chanel No. 5) to millions of women.  As Christian Dior put it: “With a black pullover and ten rows of pearls she revolutionized fashion.”

The book is an oversized glossy paperback with over 100 photos of Chanel and her designs, including the suits, dresses, pants, jewelry, handbags, and hats. 

Buy your holiday books and gifts at your local independent bookstore and keep more revenue in your community.