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This American fashion designer’s impact on the fashion industry was so profound that people still use her designs today. Coco Chanel was born Gabrielle Bonheur Chanel on August 19, 1883, in Saumur, France. She had a challenging upbringing because she was born into an impoverished family. After her mother’s death, her father left her and her siblings in an orphanage. There she learned to sew, which sparked her interest in fashion.
Her life and career were marked by remarkable achievements and influence. In her early 20s, she started working as a seamstress and hat-maker. It was there that she was given the name Coco. Her simple practical designs caught the attention of wealthy clients, and she opened her first boutique in 1910. She initially began selling hats, but as her skills improved, she became known for selling clothing.
Chanel is considered a legendary figure in the fashion industry. She championed comfortable, yet stylish clothing, challenging the corsets and restrictive attire of the early 20th century by creating the famous “Chanel Suit” which pioneered the concept of a relaxed and elegant suit for women. Chanel also revolutionized fashion by creating the “Little Black Dress,” in 1926, a timeless and versatile wardrobe staple that never goes out of style. She utilized jersey fabric, traditionally used for men’s undergarments, in her designs. She also introduced iconic accessories, such as the quilted handbag with a chain strap.
Chanel’s impact on the fashion world changed women’s fashion by giving them more comfortable and liberating options. Her legacy continues to influence designers and fashion trends. The Chanel brand remains a symbol of timeless style and luxury even today.
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