This post began as a book review but evolved into something else once the research began. If interested in vintage fashion history or design education, this post is a must-read. About a month ago I stumbled upon a gorgeous not-for-profit used bookstore. Inside sitting on as shelf as if it knew I was coming, was this book, Dreaming of Chanel. How I didn't know about author Charlotte Smith, her two books or the fascinating story surrounding The Darnell Collection, is a mystery. But now that I know, I must share!
BookVu: Dreaming of Chanel
Author Charlotte Smith
Illustrator Grant Cowan
Publisher HarperCollins, 292 pages
This gorgeous little book reminds me of a Hemingway novel with its breezy, vintage
feel and dreamy stories about international diplomats,
designers & socialites—and their clothes.
feel and dreamy stories about international diplomats,
designers & socialites—and their clothes.
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| Photo: HarperCollins |
To give this book perspective requires a bit of background.
Author Charlotte Smith inherited a vast collection of
more than 5000 vintage pieces from her godmother Doris Darnell.
The Darnell Collection as it’s known includes Dior, Chanel, Givenchy and
countless other originals dating from 1790-1995.
The Collection toured for many years with its original owner as a live “fashion talk.”
The video below tells the story, but ends abruptly.
Author Charlotte Smith inherited a vast collection of
more than 5000 vintage pieces from her godmother Doris Darnell.
The Darnell Collection as it’s known includes Dior, Chanel, Givenchy and
countless other originals dating from 1790-1995.
The Collection toured for many years with its original owner as a live “fashion talk.”
The video below tells the story, but ends abruptly.
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| Author Charlotte Smith |
Her second book, Dreaming of Chanel, is a follow-up that reveals additional snapshots of fashion stories that read like fairytales for fashionistas.
Each page is a complete story, in 200 words or fewer, based on a person or an event with the clothing taking center stage.
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| Grant Cowan Illustration from Dreaming of Dior |
The illustrations by Grant Cowan are undeniably amazing, and contribute greatly to this being not only a book on fashion, design and history, but also an art book.
If you are left like myself wanting to see actual photos of the collection though, pay a visit to the Darnell Collection blog for a peek. It would take years of work, but I would love to see the entire collection photographed with as much detail and information given as is available regarding designers, materials, value—online like a living gallery and design resource. So the world can see and appreciate it.
I firmly believe a book should stand on its own and this one left me a bit confused at first, but always entertained. It was only after some research that I realized the gem I'd discovered in that little bookstore.
This would be a lovely book club selection—seeing who selected which story as their favourite?! I can also see exquisitely fun dinner party based on its theme!
This is an absolutely enjoyable and delightful read with fascinating historical fashion value. Have a look at the blogs and video above and see if you agree.
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| Photo: The Darnell Collection |
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| Photo: The Darnell Collection |
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| 1960's Pucci Shift Dress. Photo: Bertie Smith, The Darnell Collection |
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| Vintage Chanel Suit. Photo: The Darnell Collection |
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| Sleeve embellishment of a 1930's dress. Photo: Bertie Smith |
_______________________________ Why not look your best every day?
