If you have not yet seen Coco Before Chanel spend an afternoon during your holiday break with Audrey Tautou as she takes on the role of the infamous Gabrielle Bonheur "Coco" Chanel. It is the story of her early years before quilted bags, interlocking C's, fortune and fame.
As a young woman she was faced with the realities of being an orphan with no family and no dowry. These were the early 20th century's components that defined the social class with which you belonged and presented the possibilities of your prospective future. Chanel rose above her social limitations, as we clearly know today, but not before she faced desperation and difficult, ego shattering choices, love and then loss.
I left the theater riding a high, moved not only by Audrey Tautou's brilliant (and honest) performance of this stubborn, relentless woman, but also the clothes, of course!
I am inspired by Coco on a daily basis. If by some chance the film has kind led your flame for simple sophistication and your wallet is not entirely in support of a trip to the corner of Spring and Wooster, below are a few Mademoiselle Chanel inspired pleasures for your perusal:
