Coco Chanel is an iconic name in the world of fashion. She revolutionized the fashion industry with her unique vision and introduced several trends that are still popular today.
One such trend is tanning. There are many rumors and myths surrounding Coco Chanel’s contribution to popularizing tanning, and in this article, we’ll explore the truth behind these claims.
Coco Chanel – A Fashion Icon
Coco Chanel was a French fashion designer who gained popularity during the early 20th century. She was known for her elegant and timeless designs that challenged traditional fashion norms. From introducing the little black dress to creating the iconic Chanel No.5 perfume, Chanel’s influence on fashion is undeniable.
The Myth of Coco Chanel Popularizing Tanning
It is widely believed that Coco Chanel popularized tanning during a Mediterranean holiday in the 1920s. According to this story, she accidentally got sunburnt while on vacation and returned to Paris sporting a tan that became an instant hit among her fans.
However, this story is nothing but a myth. In reality, tanning had been a popular trend among wealthy Europeans long before Coco Chanel’s alleged sunburn incident. In fact, it was already considered fashionable to have a tan because it indicated that one had ample leisure time to spend outdoors.
So What Was Coco Chanel’s Contribution?
While it’s true that Coco Chanel did not popularize tanning, she did contribute to changing people’s perception of it. In the early 20th century, having tan skin was associated with lower-class manual laborers who spent their days working outside under the sun. Wealthy people preferred pale skin as it indicated that they didn’t have to work outdoors and could afford indoor leisure activities.
Chanel challenged this notion by embracing her own naturally tanned skin and making it fashionable among high society women as well. She even went as far as designing swimwear that exposed more skin to the sun, which further contributed to changing people’s perception of tanning.
The Risks of Tanning
While tanning may have been popularized by Coco Chanel and other fashion icons, it’s important to note that excessive exposure to the sun can have serious health consequences. Sunburns and tans are both signs that your skin has been damaged by UV radiation, which can increase your risk of developing skin cancer.
Therefore, it’s crucial to protect your skin from the harmful effects of the sun. Always wear sunscreen when spending time outdoors, seek shade during peak sunlight hours, and wear protective clothing such as hats and long-sleeved shirts.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Coco Chanel did not popularize tanning, but she did contribute to changing people’s perception of it. She embraced her own naturally tanned skin and made it fashionable among high society women. However, it’s important to remember that excessive exposure to the sun can have serious health consequences, so always protect your skin when spending time outdoors.