As you enter through the garden you find yourself gazing upon the staircase overlooking Chanel's salon. Make sure to download the app specially created for the exhibition if you visit. It'll guide you through the rooms and has lots of interactive features for you to access. You're instructed to hold up your phone at various points to unlock exclusive content which really brings the essence of Chanel to life.
The white corridors are edged with black to give you the sensation of walking around inside the iconic Chanel No 5 bottle. As you enter the Chanel No 5 laboratory you are hit with the familiar scent. The canisters open to reveal their potions as the fragrance fills the room, it's a truly magical experience.
The Jardin A La Francaise depicts a 18th century style maze inspired by the intertwined 'C' motif Gabrielle Chanel first saw on the stained glass windows at Aubazine, the orphanage where she lived as a child. The interlocking 'C' design later became the brand's signature.
Bijoux De Diamants houses the re-edition of the original 'Bijoux De Diamants', the only high jewellery collection created by Mademoiselle Chanel in 1932. A portrait gallery of celebrities wearing the pieces adorns the walls photographed by creative director Karl Lagerfeld. One of the highlights of the exhibition is the short film starring Geraldine Chaplin as the ghost of Coco Chanel in an encounter with Karl as they bicker over what he has done with the brand.
The Totems including lucky numbers, pearls, wheat and black lines are symbols and icons created by Gabrielle Chanel and still used by Karl Lagerfeld today. These emblems have become synonymous with the house.
Another of my highlights has to be the Sensory Room. Walking through a maze of fabric from Chanel's collection you can examine the detail of the fine silks in contrast against the feel of the tough leathers. You almost become lost amongst the drapes as you truly immerse yourself in the ideology of the brand. Short animations are projected against the fabrics. A bucket filled with their iconic black and gold chains is also on display.
Mademoiselle Prive has to be one of the best exhibitions I've ever had the pleasure of attending. Chanel is truly brought to life through a sensory awakening using the interactive app, scents, touch and visual displays capturing the personality and spirit of Mademoiselle Chanel and Karl Lagerfeld.
Mademoiselle Prive is open until Sunday 1st November at the Saatchi Gallery so hurry down there this weekend as this is one not to be missed!
