Uncovering Coco Chanel’s Nazi Connections in ‘The New Look’

### Chanel’s Complicated History During World War II

Before the war and during the Occupation, Coco Chanel was part of an extraordinary social set from across the arts and political spectrum. Right-wing and antisemitic views dominated the politics of this group. The French journalist Boulos Ristelhueber reported in 1940 that Chanel had gone into “into a long tirade against the Jews” during a dinner. Unlike some in her circle, however, Chanel didn’t embrace Nazi ideology. Above all, she was an opportunist.

### Doubts Surrounding Chanel’s Alleged Participation in the French Resistance

Recent documents have surfaced “attesting” to Coco Chanel’s participation in the French Resistance, despite her known involvement with the Nazis. The documents, displayed at the Victoria and Albert Museum as part of an exhibit on Chanel’s fashion legacy, have raised eyebrows. Guillaume Pollack, a French historian, expressed skepticism about Chanel’s actual involvement in the Resistance, citing a lack of corroborating evidence in her file. He believes Chanel may have secured the attestation in the 1950s to restore her reputation after reopening her fashion house.

### Chanel’s Controversial Legacy and the Wertheimer Connection

By the time Chanel reopened her fashion house in the 1950s, the Wertheimers had settled with her over ownership of her company, paying her millions of dollars and supporting her return to designing clothes. Today, the grandsons of Pierre Wertheimer own the company, which continues to portray Chanel as a symbol of chic and independence while overlooking her dark past. The official Chanel website celebrates her as an inspiration for women, ignoring her problematic history.

### The Contradictions of Chanel’s Character

In a fictionalized portrayal of Chanel’s life, she refuses to apologize for denouncing individuals to the Gestapo, claiming she was cornered just like them. This portrayal highlights the complexity of Chanel’s character, showcasing her refusal to acknowledge her role in troubling events. Despite her intelligence, Chanel’s actions during World War II continue to raise questions about her true motivations and allegiances.

Original Story at www.nytimes.com – 2024-03-08 06:07:29