The Last Collection: A Novel of Elsa Schiaparelli and Coco Chanel

By Jeanne Mackin

Book Overview

An American woman becomes entangled in the intense rivalry between iconic fashion designers Coco Chanel and Elsa Schiaparelli in this captivating novel from the acclaimed author of The Beautiful American.

Paris, 1938. Coco Chanel and Elsa Schiaparelli are fighting for recognition as the most successful and influential fashion designer in France, and their rivalry is already legendary. They oppose each other at every turn, in both their politics and their designs: Chanel's are classic, elegant, and practical; Schiaparelli's bold, experimental, and surreal.

When Lily Sutter, a recently widowed young American teacher, visits her brother, Charlie, in Paris, he insists on buying her a couture dress--a Chanel. Lily, however, prefers a Schiaparelli. Charlie's beautiful and socially prominent girlfriend soon begins wearing Schiaparelli's designs as well, and much of Paris follows in her footsteps.

Schiaparelli offers budding artist Lily a job at her store, and Lily finds herself increasingly involved with Schiaparelli and Chanel's personal war. Their fierce competition reaches new and dangerous heights as the Nazis and the looming threat of World War II bear down on Paris.

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1101990546
• ISBN13: 9781101990544
• Release Date: June 2019
• Publisher: Berkley Books
• Length: 352 Pages
• Weight: 1.20 lbs.
• Dimensions: 1.2" x 5.9" x 9.0"

Customer Reviews

Wonderful book

I'm a big Chanel fan and a fan of books about WWII wartime Europe. This book is the perfect combination of both.

The Last Collection

The Last Collection is the first book I have read by Jeanne Mackin. I thought it was an entertaining and fascinating read. It was great learning about fashion greats Elsa Schiaparelli and Coco Chanel. I loved the vivid details that made me feel as though I was transported back in time and living during their time. I loved the introduction of Lily, as well. She was a perfect addition to the story and getting entwined with the fashion world. I enjoyed getting to know her and admired her courage and bravery. I am giving The Last Collection four and a half stars. I recommend it for readers who enjoy historical fiction that include historical figures from the past. I would love to read more by Jeanne Mackin in the future. I received a print copy of The Last Collection from the publisher. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.