Final Paper Topic/Image Choices

#1 Coco Chanel & Serge Lifar

Background Information:

  • 1937
  • Gabrielle “Coco” Chanel (both artist & designer pictured on the left), Serge Lifar (dancer and friend, pictured on the right)
  • Vintage photograph dedicated to Lifar by Chanel as a token of their friendship. The two had met during the production of the Le Train Bleu ballet production in 1924 (Ballets Russes) and became acquainted due to similar artistic interests.

Explanation for Choice:

  • I find this image to be interesting as it frames Coco Chanel in both the aesthetic and reputation she is known for: simplistic chic and a sense of assertiveness and independence. I think this image in particular is successful in conveying this carefully crafted image because Chanel is taller than her friend and is dressed almost identically to him, a flaunt (albeit deceptive) of androgyny. Her arm is also around his shoulders as opposed to the other way around and she is holding a cigarette, which gives me the impression of intensity and dominance on her part in their relationship. This transparency in tone coincides with both my personality and taste in aesthetics: I love the attitude alongside simplicity, contrasting black and white colour scheme, and unisex style.

 

#2 Chanel Ensemble Magazine Illustration

Background Information:

  • July 1926
  • Drawn by Soulie
  • Found in Delinator magazine

Explanation of Choice:

  • I believe that this illustration portrays the quintessential garçonne girl of the 1920s, capturing her personality, expected-body type, hairstyle, and attitude. Her pose is relaxed and somewhat haughty.
  • The garçonne style/archetype is historically one of my favourites. The androgynous style and body type are what I appreciate in that the silhouette is unassuming of the wearer’s “femininity” (curves) and holds quite a baggy and comfortable application of materiality in construction.

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