Chanel: The Impossible Collection

Description Chanel: The Impossible Collection is a literary museum exhibition, a curated selection of 100 iconic and signature looks of the house of Chanel, from the timeless Little Black Dress to the impeccably simple tweed suit, the apothecary-style perfume bottle, two-tone pumps, abundant strands of faux pearls and stones, and diamond-quilted leather handbag, from Mademoiselle’s revolutionary designs to Karl Lagerfeld’s unexpected and even irreverent variations on her original codes. More than any other designer of her era, Gabrielle Chanel could predict the evolution of contemporary fashion. Self-inventor extraordinaire, Chanel revolutionised the lifestyle of her time by inventing a modern concept of luxe minimalism, elevating humble fabrics such as jersey and tweed to couture status, giving birth to a new silhouette that was both sophisticated and discreet, and setting her stamp on the twentieth century with her modern spirit of understated luxury. The house of Chanel represents modern fashion. Under the guidance of its founder, the modern woman’s style was shaped by the image of Gabrielle Chanel herself. She dressed women to be free, and her emancipated clothes reflected the shifting social landscape. Her designs fundamentally affected what we wear and how we wear it. The work of the house under her successor, Karl Lagerfeld, has transformed fashion anew: He drew the template for a fashion designer reviving a moribund house with elements from its history. Just as Chanel created modern fashion, Lagerfeld in turn established the blueprint of the modern fashion house. She reshaped the clothes women wear, he reshaped the industry that makes them. Selected by fashion journalist Alexander Fury, Chanel: The Impossible Collection showcases the finest images from the world’s foremost editorial photographers, specialist museums, and private collections, including rare archival photos. This handcrafted Ultimate Collection volume is the quintessential compendium for fashion aficionados.   About Assouline: Founded in Paris in 1994 by Prosper and Martine Assouline, Assouline is the first luxury brand on culture. It began with the desire to create a new, contemporary style of book, using the couple’s experienced eye for visually rich stories and compelling narratives. Guided by their passion for knowledge, culture and travel, the Assoulines have since expanded their vision to 1,700 titles in three main collections, along with special editions and unique library accessories—a grand oeuvre of inspiring creations. Over the last quarter of a century, the brand has established a network of international boutiques in prominent locations worldwide. Assouline has also inaugurated a curated library service, working closely with clients to visualise, design, and develop bespoke, one-of-a-kind libraries. With a distinguished team of creative talents, which includes the founders’ son Alexandre, the brand continues to reinvent the notion of true luxury. Assouline’s roster of collaborators consists of some of the world’s most respected brands, artists, photographers, writers, and designers. Assouline continues to exude an unparalleled signature style and elegant savoir-faire, which has globally redefined the modern publishing landscape. Learn more