Did Coco Chanel Always Wear Pearls?

Coco Chanel is a fashion icon and one of the most influential designers in history. She is known for her timeless and elegant designs, as well as her signature style of wearing pearls. However, there has been much debate over whether Coco Chanel always wore pearls or not.

The Myth:

The myth that Coco Chanel always wore pearls stems from an interview she did with Harper’s Bazaar in 1937. In the interview, she stated that “pearls are always appropriate” and that she wears them with everything. This statement has been taken out of context over the years, leading people to believe that she never left the house without her pearls.

However, this simply isn’t true. While Coco Chanel did love pearls and often incorporated them into her designs, she didn’t wear them every day. In fact, there are many photographs of her where she isn’t wearing any pearls at all.

The Truth:

Coco Chanel was a savvy businesswoman and knew the power of branding. She created an image for herself that was timeless and elegant, which included wearing pearls. She often wore long strands of pearls with simple black dresses, creating a look that was both classic and modern.

However, she also knew how to mix things up. She would often wear colorful beaded necklaces or statement pieces instead of pearls to add a pop of color to her outfits. She also loved to layer necklaces and mix different styles together for a unique look.

The Legacy:

While Coco Chanel didn’t always wear pearls, they have become synonymous with her brand and legacy. Her love for pearls inspired many of her designs, including the iconic two-tone slingback shoes that have a pearl detail on the heel.

Today, wearing pearls is still considered a classic and timeless look thanks in part to Coco Chanel’s influence. Whether you choose to wear long strands or simple studs, pearls are always appropriate and will never go out of style.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, while Coco Chanel did love pearls and often wore them, she didn’t wear them every day. Her statement that “pearls are always appropriate” has been taken out of context over the years, leading people to believe that she never left the house without them. However, her legacy lives on and pearls continue to be a classic and timeless accessory thanks to her influence.