This New Exhibition Documents the Undeniable Influence of Gabrielle 'Coco' Chanel

A new exhibition is set to open at London's V&A museum, dedicated to the life and work of French couturière, Gabrielle 'Coco' Chanel.

Titled "Gabrielle Chanel. Fashion Manifesto," the exhibition will document the evolution of CHANEL and its undeniable influence on the fashion industry, taking its viewer on a journey from the opening of Chanel's first millinery boutique in 1910, all the way to the showing of her final collection in 1971. Featuring over 200 looks alongside accessories, perfumes and jewelry, alongside rarely-seen pieces from the V&A's own collection, the exhibition will explore Chanel's unique approach to fashion design.

Tristram Hunt, Director of the V&A, explains, "As one of the most successful fashion houses in existence, CHANEL owes much to the templates first laid down by its founder Gabrielle Chanel, over a century ago. We are delighted to be partnering with CHANEL and the Palais Galliera on this exhibition, which provides us with the opportunity to explore the origins and elements of this enduring style and to display little-known historic Chanel garments from the V&A collection."

Echoing that excitement is Bruno Pavlovsky, President of CHANEL SAS and CHANEL Fashion, "We are happy and honored that the first exhibition dedicated to Gabrielle Chanel to be held in the UK, will be presented at the V&A, one of the most prestigious museums in the world. Gabrielle Chanel was a legend in her own lifetime. This exhibition will analyze her contribution to fashion and her radical vision of a style that created modernity and reflected the aspirations of women and the evolution of their place in society."

The new "Gabrielle Chanel. Fashion Manifesto" exhibition will open on September 16, with tickets available from the V&A's website.

In related news, designer Jonathan Anderson is set to host a debut solo exhibition in London.