Coco Chanel is one of the most iconic names in the fashion industry. She revolutionized women’s fashion and brought about a new era of style and elegance.
Many people associate Coco Chanel with haute couture, but did you know that she started her career by designing hats? Yes, you heard it right! Coco Chanel began her journey as a hat maker before becoming a famous fashion designer.
The Early Years Of Coco Chanel
Coco Chanel was born in Saumur, France, in 1883. She had humble beginnings and grew up in an orphanage after her mother passed away when she was just 12 years old.
In her early years, she learned to sew and became a seamstress. However, it wasn’t until she started making hats that her talent for design was truly recognized.
Chanel’s Hat Designs
Coco Chanel’s hats were unlike anything seen before. She moved away from the traditional ornate designs and instead opted for simple yet elegant designs. Her hats were made from felt or straw and often featured a ribbon or bow as the only embellishment.
The Birth Of The ‘Chanel’ Style
Chanel’s simple yet stylish designs caught the attention of many people in high society, including French actress Gabrielle Dorziat. Gabrielle loved Coco’s hats so much that she ordered several pieces for herself and her friends. It was then that Coco decided to start her own business.
In 1910, Coco opened her first hat shop on Rue Cambon in Paris. The shop quickly gained popularity, and soon enough, Coco had clients from all over Europe.
From Hats To Fashion
Coco’s success as a hat maker allowed her to expand into other areas of fashion. In the 1920s, she introduced the iconic little black dress that became an instant hit.
She also introduced the Chanel suit, which was made from tweed and featured straight lines and a collarless jacket. These designs were a departure from the traditional corsets and frilly dresses that were popular at the time.
The Legacy Of Coco Chanel
Coco Chanel’s legacy lives on even today. Her designs continue to inspire fashion designers around the world, and her name is synonymous with style and elegance. From her humble beginnings as a hat maker to her status as a fashion icon, Coco Chanel truly revolutionized the world of fashion.
- Conclusion:
In conclusion, Coco Chanel did indeed start her career as a hat maker. Her simple yet stylish designs caught the attention of many people in high society, which led to her opening her first hat shop in Paris.
Her success as a hat maker allowed her to expand into other areas of fashion, including clothing and accessories. Today, she is remembered as one of the most influential fashion designers of all time.