The life and style of Gabrielle Bonheur “Coco” Chanel remains a well-spring of inspiration, even 134 years after her birth.  She was a thoroughly modern woman whose insight and instinct transcended the rules of her generation and still resonates today.  Credited with freeing women from restrictive fashion restraints, she was the model for 20th century life and style.  Her brand remains relevant and aspirational, inspiring publication after publication of her extraordinary life. Whether you love her fashion or her rags to immense riches story, there should be a book below that can earn a place on your bookshelf.  Although her favorite number was 5, I couldn’t limit myself to so few, instead offering you my top ten.       Chanel:  A Women of Her Own One of the first fully realized biographies, this book remains the gold standard.  By renowned biographer Axel Madsen, it was one of the initial books to explore not only the power of her designs, but the bittersweet backstory of the designer as well. I have owned this book for more years than I can count and I still love to look through it and peruse a well-written paragraph.            Chanel and Her World  Edmonde-Charles Roux, former French Vogue editor and confidante of Chanel, is considered her official biographer.  This is more of a pictorial biography, featuring a glimpse of her life as only her inner circle knew her.  Originally published decades ago then subsequently out of print, it returned with more full color photos.  This is a more intimate and favorable look at her inner and social life from the perspective of those who loved her.            Chanel:  The Vocabulary of Style  A full coffee table book exploring the vernacular that is synonymous with the Chanel brand.  From tweed, pearls and camellias, Jerome Gautier shows the...