I was thrilled and more than a little excited to be invited along to the Manchester launch of ASSOULINE’s latest book, ‘Chanel: The Impossible Collection’. The event took place on 11 March in The Library at The Edwardian Manchester, a stunning, intimate venue, curated by the famous French publisher for the pleasure of the hotel’s guests.
One of my absolute favourite fashion and jewellery designers, the entire evening was dedicated to Chanel. From the bespoke, limited edition ‘The Little Black Dress’ cocktail and the sparkling in-conversation, to the absolute star of the show, the beautifully presented coffee table book, (which of course I couldn’t take my eyes off) it was an evening of pure Chanel heaven.
An opportunity not to be missed, I spent the evening immersed in the unique history of arguably one of the greatest and most enduring fashion houses, which spans an incredible 100 years. I also got the once in a lifetime opportunity to hear from two of the world’s leading fashion experts – Alexander Fury, the book’s award-winning author and Gianluca Longo, British Vogue’s celebrated Style Editor, who exuded style and a natural, almost God-given ability to navigate the field in an effortless and utterly charming way.
I was expecting the in-conversation part of the evening with these two fashion heavyweights to be both fascinating and engaging, but I what I hadn’t anticipated, was being completely blown away. It was a rare moment in time where just sitting, listening to another human being speak, was so utterly spellbinding, that it felt like nothing else mattered.
Alex’s seemingly encyclopaedic knowledge and innate passion for his field, coupled with his almost humble style, was pure gold and hugely inspiring, particularly for a Chanel junkie like me! It was a healthy reminder of the power and emotional effect that conversation has, when we’re brave enough to strip away life’s distractions and overlays. Just listening to him speak, I can understand why ASSOULINE asked Alex to compile and curate this stunning publication. I can also see why the House of Chanel gave the publication the nod without making any amends whatsoever.
The book itself is a magnificent masterpiece and an incredible publication. It is an exceptional accolade to a truly exceptional talent, and the perfect tribute to the late, great Coco Chanel and the inspirational Karl Lagerfeld, whose spirits lived on in the room through Alex.
It was lovely to share this very special evening with fellow fashion fanatic, Jo Davies from Black White Denim and to end it on a complete high, sitting, chatting to the uber talented and wonderfully unassuming, Alex.
Coming soon on the Journal – the story of Chanel’s jewels throughout the last century…
Love From Jennifer X
