CHANEL FASHION REVIEW: Paper Dolls in Full Color

Tom Tierney

Dover Publications, Inc., New York, USA

Year 1986

Pages 16

Most fashion historians would agree that to review the incredible career of Gabrielle “Coco” Chanel is, in essence, to review the evolution of 20th century fashion. From the early 20s, when she convinced French women to drop the cumbersome trappings of Edwardian clothing, to the free-spirited 60s and 70s, when her simple, comfortable styles graced all the best-dressed “beautiful people,” Chanel has influenced virtually every major trend changing haute couture. This unique paper doll collection presents 28 of Chanel’s greatest creations. Rendered in vibrant color by noted illustrator Tom Tierney, the review begins with examples of her earliest work, for which she borrowed male attire and eliminated excessive frills, and concludes with the enormously popular designs of her triumphant comeback in the late 50s and 60s. The costumes presented include some of her most famous designs: revolutionary costumes for Diaghilev’s “The Blue Train,” 1924; the famous “little black dress” that became a staple in the well-dressed woman’s wardrobe; an evening cape of crepe de chine, trimmed with fur; a black suit lined with white satin; and many more dresses, suits and ensembles displaying her graceful sense of line, color, and shape.