The well-known designer fashion house Chanel is French in origin, and was launched over 70 years ago by Coco Chanel. No longer in the Chanel family, the label is now owned by the great grandsons of one of Chanel’s partners. It is today one of the leading fashion houses and a world renowned brand.
Coco Chanel was born Gabrielle Chanel in 1883 and started her career in cabaret. She then went on to design hats as something to do to pass her spare time, and found that she enjoyed the process immensely. Her life’s work grew from there.
Chanel’s work was extremely popular; she is credited with creating the ‘little black dress’ which is still popular today. Her clothing lines were simple although elegant, and gave the wearer a feeling of class. The clothes were timeless, and many of the original designs are still being worn today.
Today the label includes many perfumes, the most famous of which is the Chanel No.5. Coco Chanel’s ‘Mademoiselle’ was a top selling fragrance for several years running after its release and remains popular still. In the range of accessories, Chanel handbags are a much sought after item by both celebrities and members of the public, some selling for thousands of pounds each.
With boutiques worldwide, the label has gone from strength to strength. Even with the introduction of newer, fresher design labels such as Alexander McQueen and Stella McCartney, the simple elegance of the Chanel range remains timelessly classic.