What Would Coco Do?

This week the V&A opens its fabulous new exhibition, Gabrielle Chanel: Fashion Manifesto.

Few would argue that Gabrielle Chanel was a true creative visionary, and in many ways she wrote the rulebook for contemporary style. Thinking of some of her most quoted wisdoms – we can’t help but notice how relevant they also are for interiors…

This could absolutely apply to the design of your house itself. Gabrielle Chanel always believed it is better to be underdressed. Accessories are key – but it’s easy to overdo it. After you’ve styled your room, think about removing one display item, and see the difference it makes.

Again, a timeless truth. Surround yourself with the things you love, and beyond that, with very best you can afford.

“The best things in life are free. The second best are very expensive.”

“Fashion is not something that exists in dresses only. Fashion is in the sky, in the street, fashion has to do with ideas, the way we live, what is happening.”

Just swap out fashion for design and dresses for rooms and you have our approach in a nutshell. Widen your view: your surroundings don’t simply define your tastes, they can be an expression of your whole world.

Similar to that often-repeated phrase from Mies Van Der Rohe ‘Less is more’ – but we much prefer Chanel’s take.

“Simplicity is the keynote of all true elegance.”

Similar to that often-repeated phrase from Mies Van Der Rohe ‘Less is more’ – but we much prefer Chanel’s take.

“Fashion changes, but style endures.”

When it comes to interiors, the distinction between fashion and style is important. As a design practice we seek to make sustainable choices wherever possible, and that means building in longevity.

Do you agree? Remember if you are searching for the perfect accessories for your space do visit Curio for elegant pieces we think she would approve of.