Cruella de Vil is a fictional character from Dodie Smith's novel "The Hundred and One Dalmatians," published in 1956. She is known for her obsession with fashion and her desire to create a fur coat made from the fur of Dalmatian puppies. Cruella is often depicted as a villain, characterized by her striking black-and-white hair and extravagant clothing. In various adaptations, including the popular animated film by Disney in 1961 and the live-action film "Cruella" released in 2021, she is portrayed as a cunning and ruthless antagonist. Her character explores themes of ambition, jealousy, and the consequences of one's actions, making her a memorable figure in popular culture.