Over 100 alumni, guests and parents enjoyed a stunning collection of timeless elegance at this morning’s exclusive, private view of ‘Gabrielle Chanel.Fashion Manifesto’ at V&A South Kensington.

Guests marvelled at the collection, displayed both chronologically and thematically, with styles grouped together, accompanied by striking and characteristically minimal displays. The exhibition itself was supported by a fascinating exploration into the life of Gabrielle Chanel by lecturer, scholar and historian, Anne Haworth, whose captivating talk in the museum’s Hochhauser Auditorium, layered added context to the many visual nuances of the collection, revealing a powerful insight into the life of Chanel, and adding further magic to the collection, which was viewed thereafter.

Highlights of the first retrospective UK exhibition dedicated entirely to Chanel were undoubtedly the dozens of iconic bouclé suits arranged in a spectacular rainbow-coloured arc. An optic-white room showcased with perfect simplicity Chanel’s quintessential perfume, Chanel No 5, while by contrast a range of dazzling sequin trouser suits, feather-trimmed capelets and sumptuous gold embroidered coats closed the exhibition; a fascinating and dazzling celebration of the life and work of Gabrielle Chanel.

Many thanks to Alumni Association Co-Chairs, Anne Cyron and Audrey Mitchell, who introduced Anne Haworth, thanking our guests and welcoming Head, Alexandra Haydon to her first ever FHS event.

And of course, a huge thank you to all who attended the biggest-ever event from Francis Holland’s Alumni Association.

Claire Brazer, Alumni Relations Officer