Gabrielle Bonheur Chanel, known as Coco Chanel, is one of the most influential fashion designers of all time. She revolutionized the fashion industry by introducing comfortable and practical clothing for women.
However, many people wonder how she got the nickname “Coco.” In this article, we will explore the story behind her iconic nickname.
Early Life
Gabrielle Chanel was born in Saumur, France on August 19, 1883. Her mother passed away when she was young, and her father left her and her siblings in an orphanage. There, Gabrielle learned how to sew from nuns who taught her basic sewing skills.
Becoming a Milliner
After leaving the orphanage, Gabrielle started working as a seamstress and a singer in cafes. It was during this time that she met Etienne Balsan, a wealthy textile heir who became her lover and introduced her to high society. Balsan helped Gabrielle open her first hat shop in Paris in 1910.
The Birth of “Coco”
Legend has it that Gabrielle got her nickname “Coco” from one of her early patrons, Arthur Capel. Capel was a wealthy Englishman who had an affair with Gabrielle while he was still married. He affectionately referred to Gabrielle as “Coco,” which is short for cocotte, meaning “kept woman” or “mistress” in French.
However, some sources claim that Coco came from a song she used to sing at the café where she worked. The song was called “Ko Ko Ri Ko,” and it is said that customers started calling her Coco after hearing her sing it.
Legacy
Regardless of how she got the name Coco, there’s no denying that Gabrielle Chanel left an indelible mark on the fashion industry. She is credited with popularizing the little black dress, introducing trousers for women, and creating the iconic Chanel suit. Her legacy lives on today through the Chanel brand, which is still one of the most recognizable and coveted luxury brands in the world.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Gabrielle Chanel’s nickname “Coco” may have come from a variety of sources, but what matters most is her lasting impact on fashion. Her determination and creativity transformed women’s fashion forever. Coco Chanel will forever be remembered as a trailblazer and an icon in the fashion industry.