Chanel
Chanel was founded in 1910 by Gabrielle “Coco” Chanel in Paris. She famously revolutionized womenswear by replacing structured, corseted silhouettes with functional, uncomplicated garments made in jersey – an instant hit with women of her era. Another of her innovations came about when she decided to design a bag that freed her hands. 1955 saw the introduction of the now classic 2.55 quilted handbag with chain strap – the first luxury bag for women with a shoulder strap. Named artistic director in 1983, Karl Lagerfeld is perhaps most remembered for creating Chanel ready-to-wear collections as we know them today. He looked to Chanel’s past for inspiration and incorporated classic signatures such as tweed, gold chains, costume jewellery and quilted bags, amping them up for the 80s, 90s and 2000s. Virginie Viard, who worked with Lagerfeld at the Maison for over 30 years, has been Creative Director since 2019.
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