The FiFi Report 180

The Collection: A Novel by Gioia Diliberto
A fascinating look behind the public salons of haute couture into the workrooms of the imperious Coco Chanel herself, revealing the hierarchies, jealousies, fierce ambitions, and treacheries of an industry that trades on elegance. Seamstress Isabelle Varlet has our sympathy from the first stunning line to the bittersweet ending, and Gioia Diliberto pulls us along on a thread knotted with surprises. Chanel, however, is another story: with her married lovers and fiery arrogance, Mademoiselle is the true star of the book; each moment she’s on the page is sheer pleasure, much like fine couture. A thoroughly enjoyable read.’$16 www.amazon.com Publisher: Scribner (September 11, 2007)