Coco Chanel changed the way women dressed forever. Her innovative style and meticulous eye for detail released women in the 20th century from the overdressed style that suffocated the high society gal about town. Even today, Chanel continues to push boundaries as well as staying true to it’s unique style which underpin the brands position as one of the most chic fashion houses of our time.

Co written by Anne Fontaine and her sister Camille Fontaine, the movie mainly focuses on Coco’s late 20’s when she started to showcase her creative vision. With a life touched by poverty and tragedy the opening sequence shows a young Chanel arriving at Catholic orphanage after the death of her mother. The religious dress and stark surroundings were to be the inspiration for her simple, yet sophisticated designs.

The film then jumps to Chanel, played by Audrey Tautou, a decade later working day and night as a cabaret entertainer to pay for her dresses. This is the period where Chanel, real name Gabrielle, earned her name Coco. Meeting the debauched heir Etienne Balsan at this time was the catalyst for her rise in society and ultimately to the House of Chanel.

A string of love affairs followed which gave Chanel the leverage and want to escape the kept woman status and follow her dream through to fruition with relentless hard work and eye for style in a more pure, elegant style.

The movie is a pleasure to watch both in how Chanel is portrayed and the crisp visuals. This is Audrey Tautou’s finest movies to date, acting the part to perfection including Chanel’s permanent but attractive pout. The film is ultimately about fashion, but will also appeal to an audience looking for inspiration in their own lives. Not to be missed.

Nationwide from July 31st 2009 in the UK and 28th September in the US.