We live in a world where fashion, celebrity and personality are inextricably intertwined and elevated to heights of global phenomena. A singular name — Cher, Madonna, Naomi or even Bernie — denotes an immediate and comprehensive image of personae, values and impact. The name Chanel has endured for over 100 years: What does that tell us about the House of Chanel and what does that reveal about us?

Forever Chanel will highlight the outstanding examples of both Mlle. Chanel and Mr. Lagerfeld in the KSU Museum permanent collection of both couture and high-end ready-to-wear. This includes Coco dresses from as early as 1926 to Karl’s early Chanel years. By looking at the fashion of both Mlle. Coco Chanel and Karl Lagerfeld for Chanel, we begin to piece together a remarkable story of invention, reinvention and relevant changes of the past century.

Made possible with the generous support of Dr. Linda McDonald and the Ohio Arts Council.