Chanel is one of the most iconic fashion houses of all time, known for its timeless designs and unparalleled elegance.
In this journal, we'll take a deep dive into the history of Chanel, from its founder Gabrielle Chanel to the late Karl Lagerfeld, and current artistic director Virginie Viard.
Gabrielle Chanel, also known as Coco Chanel, founded the fashion house in 1910. She was known for her revolutionary designs that challenged traditional gender norms and paved the way for modern fashion. Her signature style included tweed suits, little black dresses, and quilted handbags, all of which are still popular today.
In 1953 Coco Chanel collaborated with jeweller Robert Goossens resulting in the launch of the classic Chanel pearls. The pieces were crafted to soften the design of Chanel’s famous wool suits, which were loved by high society including Jacquie Kennedy. This movement into jewellery then led to house’s to begin selling leather handbags, which as we know now are a staple of the brand.
After Chanel's death in 1971, the brand was passed down to several designers before Karl Lagerfeld took over in 1983. Lagerfeld brought a new level of sophistication to the brand, while still staying true to its classic roots. He introduced new designs, like the iconic Chanel jacket with its straight lines and boxy shape, and also brought back some of Chanel's signature styles, like the interlocking CC logo and the use of tweed.
Under Lagerfeld's leadership, Chanel has become one of the most iconic fashion houses in the world, known for its luxurious designs and impeccable craftsmanship. The beauty of Lagerfeld was that he knew the power in Chanel’s classic styles and never strayed from what those who know and love the brand expected. Jean Hoehn, a marketer for Chanel, once said in support of this “We introduce a new fragrance every 10 years, not every three minutes like many competitors. We don’t confuse the consumer. With Chanel, people know what to expect. And they keep coming back to us, at all ages, as they enter and leave the market.”
Some of the most memorable Chanel pieces over the years include the 2.55 handbag, named after the date it was created (February 1955), and the Chanel No. 5 perfume, which has been a best-seller since its launch in 1921.
Karl Lagerfeld sadly passed away in February 2019 following complications from pancreatic cancer. His right-hand woman, Virginie Viard, was named as Chanel’s new artistic director. In 2023, the Met Gala theme, Karl Lagerfeld: A Line of Beauty, paid tribute to Lagerfeld’s legacy.
All eyes are now on the future of this iconic brand, and where Viard will take it.
