Gabrielle “Coco” Chanel, the visionary force behind one of the most esteemed fashion houses, Chanel, has undeniably shaped the fashion industry. The Victoria & Albert Museum in London pays homage to her extraordinary fashion journey with the exhibit “Gabrielle Chanel. Fashion Manifesto.”

The exhibit provides a deep dive into the evolution of Coco Chanel's creative process, showcasing a diverse range of fashion artifacts—with over two hundred looks, alongside jewelry, accessories, cosmetics, and fragrances. From Coco’s initial sketches to the iconic tweed suit worn by Lauren Bacall, each piece shares a part of Coco Chanel’s story. You can even find a handwritten thank-you note from Queen Elizabeth II expressing gratitude for the gift of Chanel No.5 from a close friend.

Coco Chanel's timeless impact, encapsulated in her famous quote "fashion changes, but style endures," resonates throughout the exhibit, as her designs have truly withstood the test of time and remain relevant in the fashion world. For enthusiasts of fashion and admirers of Coco Chanel's legacy, this exhibit is must-see; however, with a closing date set for February 25th, time is of the essence!

Photos by Smita Daryanani

This year marks seventy years since Queen Elizabeth II took the throne, making her the first British Monarch in history to celebrate a Platinum Jubilee. The Jubilee celebrations, will include many events across the country including the Trooping of the Color followed by a Flypast, the Derby at Epsom Downs, Platinum Jubilee Beacons, a party at Buckingham palace, street parties all over the country, and a Pageant on Sunday to end the weekend. As part of the celebrations, and given the Queen’s love of corgis, a trail of larger-than-life corgi statues has been set up in London. Nineteen statues, each designed and decorated by a different contemporary artist, are eye-catching additions to the streets of central London around Buckingham Palace.