Fashion manifesto: a retrospective of Chanel in Shanghai
Immersing in the evolution of Chanel's iconic creations
The Gabrielle Chanel “Fashion Manifesto” exhibition, recently held at the Power Station of Art in Shanghai, was a vivid testament to the profound impact Coco Chanel had on the world of fashion and design.
The exhibition showcased rare jewelry pieces inspired by Byzantine art, clearly illustrating how Chanel masterfully blended historical elements with the elegance of the 20th century. These pieces highlight the enduring connection between the past and present, reflecting Chanel’s unique legacy.
Coco was not just an innovator in fashion—she revolutionized it, changing the perception of femininity and style in society. Her famous quote, “To be irreplaceable, one must always be different,” perfectly encapsulates the philosophy that shaped her approach to fashion and turned her into a style icon.
Since its debut in 2020, the Gabrielle Chanel Fashion Manifesto exhibition has showcased more than 200 archival pieces, bringing to life the most outstanding creations of the House of Chanel and celebrating the exceptional career of its founder. The exhibition also takes visitors on a captivating journey through the brand’s history.
This isn’t the first exhibition dedicated to Gabrielle Chanel, but Fashion Manifesto is the first retrospective entirely focused on her role as a couturier. Previously, the exhibition was held at the Palais Galliera in Paris and the Victoria and Albert Museum in London.