25 Things You Didn't Know About Coco Chanel

Coco Chanel, born Gabrielle Bonheur Chanel, was a French fashion designer and businesswoman who revolutionized the way women dressed in the 20th century. Known for her timeless designs and iconic perfume, Chanel No. 5, she continues to be a major influence in the fashion world today. Here are 25 interesting facts about the legendary Coco Chanel:

  1. Chanel was born on August 19, 1883, in Saumur, France.
  2. She grew up in an orphanage after her mother died when she was just 12 years old.
  3. Chanel's nickname, Coco, is said to have come from her time as a singer in cafes, where she performed a song called 'Qui qu'a vu Coco'.
  4. She opened her first hat shop in Paris in 1910.
  5. Chanel is credited with popularizing the 'little black dress' in the 1920s.
  6. She introduced the Chanel suit, a boxy jacket with a fitted skirt, in the 1920s.
  7. Chanel was one of the first designers to use jersey fabric in her designs, which was typically used for men's underwear at the time.
  8. She launched her first perfume, Chanel No. 5, in 1921, which is still one of the best-selling perfumes in the world.
  9. Chanel was known for her love of pearls, which she often wore in layers.
  10. She was a pioneer in the use of costume jewelry, which she believed should be worn as real jewelry.
  11. Chanel had a famous rivalry with fellow designer Elsa Schiaparelli.
  12. She was romantically involved with several influential men, including the Duke of Westminster and Igor Stravinsky.
  13. Chanel's fashion empire was temporarily shut down during World War II, but she made a comeback in the 1950s.
  14. She collaborated with Salvador Dali on a collection in 1938.
  15. Chanel was the first designer to use black models in her runway shows.
  16. She was close friends with many famous artists and writers, including Pablo Picasso and Jean Cocteau.
  17. Chanel was known for her minimalist aesthetic, favoring simple lines and neutral colors.
  18. She popularized the use of fake tan, saying that 'a girl should be two things: classy and fabulous'.
  19. Chanel never married, saying that 'I never wanted to weigh more heavily on a man than a bird'.
  20. She died on January 10, 1971, at the age of 87.
  21. Chanel's fashion house is now run by designer Karl Lagerfeld.
  22. Her legacy continues to inspire designers and fashion lovers around the world.

These are just a few of the many fascinating facts about the legendary Coco Chanel. Her influence on the fashion world is undeniable, and her timeless designs continue to be celebrated today.