Coco Chanel is an iconic figure in the fashion industry who revolutionized the way women dressed in the early 20th century. One of her most significant contributions to fashion was the creation of the Little Black Dress (LBD). The LBD is now considered a wardrobe staple for every woman, but back in the 1920s, it was a groundbreaking concept.
Who Was Coco Chanel?
Before we delve into how Coco Chanel created the LBD, let’s take a moment to understand who she was. Gabrielle Bonheur “Coco” Chanel was a French fashion designer and businesswoman who founded the Chanel brand.
She was born in 1883 and grew up in poverty after her mother died when she was just 12 years old. Despite her humble beginnings, Coco became one of the most influential fashion designers of all time.
The History of the Little Black Dress
The Little Black Dress, or LBD as it’s commonly known, has been around for over a century. However, it wasn’t until Coco Chanel came along that it became a fashion icon.
Before Chanel’s LBD, black clothing was reserved for mourning or evening wear only. It wasn’t considered appropriate for daytime wear.
In 1926, Vogue published an illustration of a simple black dress designed by Coco Chanel. The caption read: “A sort of uniform for all women of taste.” This marked the birth of the Little Black Dress.
How Did Coco Create the Little Black Dress?
Coco Chanel’s design philosophy was centered around simplicity and functionality. She believed that women should be comfortable while still looking elegant and fashionable. Her idea behind designing the LBD was to create something that could be worn by any woman on any occasion.
The original Little Black Dress designed by Coco Chanel was made using jersey fabric – a material typically used for men’s underwear at the time. The dress was sleeveless, had a straight Silhouette, and was knee-length. It featured minimal embellishments and was devoid of any frills or flounces.
The Impact of the Little Black Dress
The Little Black Dress became an instant hit and was soon being worn by women all over the world. Its simple design made it versatile and easy to wear, while its black color made it timeless and elegant. The LBD became a symbol of women’s liberation, as it allowed them to break free from traditional fashion norms.
Conclusion
Coco Chanel’s creation of the Little Black Dress changed the course of fashion history forever. She took a color that was previously associated with mourning and transformed it into something chic and fashionable. The LBD has since become a staple in every woman’s wardrobe, proving that sometimes less really is more when it comes to fashion.