In the early 1900s, Gabrielle "Coco" Chanel, was a fashion icon with unique styles and cutting edge fashion. She was a premier fashion designer in Paris, France. Around the times that women had no rights, she became a legend and was very successful. Her creative thoughts and ideas gave women a feeling of liberation. Her clothes may have caused controversy, but her goal was to send out a message to all women, which was to "stand up" for their beliefs. Her innovations included clothing, such as sportswear and suits, costume jewelry, perfume, such as Chanel No.5, along with handbags and shoes. Today the Chanel company continues to thrive. In the year of 1955
Life magazine put Chanel on its cover stating what a revolution Coco Chanel has created with her clothing that successful women could wear.
The "Little Black Dress,"was introduced in 1926. It represented a dress that could be suitable for any occasion that women can either dress up or dress down according to their needs without having to buy a new dress. The Chanel suit was a symbol of luxury. It was always designed with expensive fabrics that were tailored to show off a women's figure, but yet to be comfortable. She paid a lot of attention to small details. The "Sling-back Pump," which was beige and black was another iconic piece along with the "Quilted Shoulder Bag." The richest women shopped in her boutiques in Paris. Her clients included many celebrities. The Chanel No.5 perfume became one of the most famous perfumes in the early 1920s. The bottle had an Art Deco style which was different then any perfume bottles before it. It allowed women of lower income to feel that they can be apart of Coco Chanel's creations. The perfume was a leading factor in her success. In 1939 Chanel closed down her clothing business due to the WWII, but continued the sales of her perfume.
Through the years her styles have remained timeless. She helped women to look and feel confident. Coco Chanel was not only one of the greatest couturiers of the 20th century, but she was also known for her sharp business sense. At one time she managed four separate enterprises including a text tile factory perfume laboratories, her couture house and a separate site where costume jewelry was manufactured. She had a profound influence of fashion for over 20 years.In 1983 Karl Lagerfeld took over as Chief Designer for the "House of Chanel." He remains in that position today. Today the Chanel company continues its success being in the forefront of fashion. Chanel remains a constant and never seems to go out of fashion. CoCo Chanel continues to fascinate the public. She is a legend that continues to live on.
