"Fashion is always a reflection of its own time, but we forget this if it is stupid." This is among the quotes of legendary fashion designer Chanel (1883-1971) collected in this biography. A former editor-in- chief of the French edition of Vogue, depicts her transformation from poor orphan Gabrielle to modern trend-setter Coco Chanel. Numerous photos show the diverse influences on her (e.g., Picasso, Russian ballet, black entertainer Josephine Baker), and Chanel's simply elegant style for women that included slacks, bobbed hair, the little black dress, and Chanel no. 5 perfume. (Her often-present cigarette is no longer fashionable.) Edmonde includes Colette's portrait of Chanel at work and notes on Karl Lagerfeld, her professional heir. Annotation 2004 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)
