The Last Collection
The Last Collection by Jeanne Mackin is a historical fiction novel published by Penguin on August 11, 2020. Set in Paris in 1938, the story follows Lily Sutter, a recently widowed American teacher who becomes embroiled in the fierce rivalry between renowned fashion designers Coco Chanel and Elsa Schiaparelli as World War II approaches. The narrative explores the contrasting styles and philosophies of the two designers, highlighting their influence on the fashion scene in a city on the brink of conflict.
Readers will find themselves immersed in the world of high fashion as Lily navigates her own preferences and the societal pressures surrounding her. The novel delves into themes of ambition and creativity, showcasing the personal and professional stakes involved in the designers’ competition. As Lily takes a job with Schiaparelli, the tension escalates, reflecting the broader turmoil of the era. This edition spans 368 pages and is presented in English, offering a rich exploration of women’s roles during a pivotal moment in history.
Official synopsis Publisher
With World War II looming over Paris, an American woman becomes entangled in the intense rivalry between iconic fashion designers Coco Chanel and Elsa Schiaparelli in this “fascinating” (Hazel Gaynor) novel from the acclaimed author of The Beautiful American.
Paris, 1938. Coco Chanel and Elsa Schiaparelli are fighting for recognition as the most successful 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 are bold, experimental, and surreal.
When Lily Sutter, a recently widowed young American teacher, visits her brother, Charlie, in Paris, he wants to buy her a couture dress—a Chanel. Lily, however, prefers a Schiaparelli. Charlie’s socially prominent girlfriend soon begins wearing Schiaparelli’s designs, too, and much of Paris follows in her footsteps.
Schiaparelli offers budding artist Lily a job at her store, and Lily finds herself increasingly involved in the designers’ personal war. Their fierce competition reaches new and dangerous heights as the Nazis and World War II bear down on Paris.
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