Did Chanel Make Hats?

When we think of Chanel, we often think of the iconic little black dress or the timeless tweed jacket. But did you know that Coco Chanel was also known for her hats In fact, her millinery creations were just as influential as her clothing designs.

Chanel’s Early Years in Millinery

Before she became a fashion designer, Coco Chanel worked as a hat maker. She started her millinery business in 1909 and quickly gained popularity for her unique designs. Her hats were often inspired by menswear, featuring simple and streamlined shapes with minimal embellishments.

The Birth of the Iconic Chanel Hat

In the 1920s, Chanel introduced one of her most famous hat designs – the cloche hat. This close-fitting hat hugged the head and featured a small brim that framed the face. It was a departure from the wide-brimmed hats that were popular at the time and quickly became a must-have accessory for fashionable women.

Fun Fact: The word “cloche” is French for “bell”, which describes the shape of this iconic hat.

Chanel’s Signature Tweed Hats

Chanel was also known for her tweed hats, which matched perfectly with her famous tweed jackets. The hats featured similar textures and colors as the jackets, creating a cohesive look that was both chic and sophisticated.

  • Chanel’s tweed hats were often adorned with buttons or bows.
  • The brims of these hats were usually wider than those of her cloche hats.
  • The tweed fabric added a touch of warmth to these stylish accessories.

Coco Chanel’s Legacy in Millinery

Although Coco Chanel is primarily remembered for her clothing designs, she made an indelible mark on the world of millinery. Her unique and innovative designs transformed the way women thought about hats and helped to shape the fashion industry as we know it today.

Final Thoughts: Chanel’s hats are just as iconic as her clothing designs, and they continue to inspire modern designers. From the timeless cloche hat to the signature tweed design, Chanel’s millinery creations are a testament to her enduring influence on fashion.