Coco Chanel began designing hats in the early 1900s, but soon her innovative, paired-down style extended to clothes. She provided an alternative form of dress for women. Liberating bodies from corsets, and letting the woman’s shape form the clothes, she upgraded cheaper fabrics such as jersey with clever cutting and styling, using her tailoring background as well as her personal philosophy of simplicity to inform what she created. She made the first 'designer perfume' - Chanel No.5, and formed what is still today an iconic brand. Justine Picardie has been researching Chanel’s life and work, and joins Jenni to reveal what drove this remarkable fashion designer.
Coco Chanel by Justine Picardine ISBN - 978-0-00-731761-5 is published in February 2010
