Gabrielle Chanel ‘Fashion Manifesto’

Another accordion Paris Letter for your mantelpiece. I knew I’d be drawing Chanel after seeing the Chanel exhibit at Palais Galliera.

I did a little doodle (in bed not on the bus).

Then Emily in Paris came along...then a re-think. 

Gabrielle Chanel’s life was much more intriguing. Many complain about their parents. But think about the alternative. 

Orphaned at 12, Gabrielle was abandoned forever by her father in a convent for 6 years. 

There she learned to sew and embroider. The rest is history. 

It’s said maybe her signature double C’s were inspired by l’Abbaye d’Aubazine’s stained glass windows. 

Watch the terrific new Netflix, The Queen’s Gambit, another orphan rags-to-riches story. 

Andre Malraux included Gabrielle Chanel in with De Gaulle and Picasso as the 3 geniuses of the 20th century. Of course she made some bad choices. Who hasn’t? 

But she had the guts and ingenuity to restart her business and her life at age 70. If you‘ve read a good Chanel biography let me know. I’m fascinated.

 I’m painting Chanel N.5 perfume again this week. They’re in my Etsy shop. Our 2nd Lockdown has begun in Paris. Its not so bad. Again I’m making chicken soup. You all stay safe & Vote svp dear PBers 😃🐻🙏❤️