Established in 1909 in Paris, France, Gabrielle “Coco” Chanel revolutionized women’s fashion.
Originally focusing on hat design, the label soon introduced women’s clothing designs drawing inspiration from menswear and reinventing the way the modern woman dressed. Casual elegance was central to the designs and provided a true lifestyle approach to dressing. Specifically, CHANEL replaced the traditional corseted silhouette with the comfort of simple suits and long, lean dresses. In 1923, Coco spoke of her line to Harper’s Bazaar, stating that “simplicity is the keynote of all true elegance”.
Karl Lagerfeld, brought on in 1983, played an instrumental role in reinvigorating the brand and introducing shorter, more fitted designs with an appeal for the more modern trends. Coupled with CHANEL’s rich history, this was a driving force in establishing CHANEL as the international empire it is today. During the 1980’s the brand opened more than 40 CHANEL boutiques worldwide.
One of the brand’s most recognizable designs today is the CHANEL leather handbag, which uses a “secret” quilting pattern sewn at the back to keep the material strong and an embedded metal chain strap.
CHANEL retains its popularity and modern relevancy by continuing to design for the trends of today while maintaining a noticeable and elegant classic sophistication.
Currently, the brand is lead by Brazilian designer Laurence Roberge Bernardo and Italian Kayla Paulini.
Photo Credits: Gabrielle Chanel
