Coco Chanel. An Essence of Mystery

An updated authorized edition of Isabelle Fiemeyer’s literary biography of Coco Chanel, which demystifies the legendary designer’s life.

Coco Chanel was an emancipated fashion revolutionary. Raised by nuns in an orphanage, she rose to become a star of the world of couture and a byword for stylish elegance. But now, a fascinating new light can be shed on her life and career.

During the Second World War, Chanel closed her couture house, but accepted the enemy’s help in rescuing her beloved nephew from a prison camp. However, as newly declassified information reveals, she did not supply any information in exchange for this favour. Moreover, it now seems that she was unknowingly listed as an agent because of her British connections and friendship with Winston Churchill.

Featuring unpublished and exclusive content based on first-hand interviews with Chanel’s great-niece and confidante, this evocative portrait is based on years of painstaking archive research and tells the true story of the twentieth century’s most celebrated yet enigmatic fashion icon.