How Long Did Coco Chanel Live in the Ritz?

Coco Chanel, the world-renowned fashion designer, is known for many things – her classic designs, her signature scent, and her love for the finer things in life. One of those finer things was the Ritz Paris hotel, where Chanel lived for more than 30 years.

But just how long did she actually call the Ritz home? Let’s take a closer look.

Chanel’s Love Affair with the Ritz

It’s no secret that Chanel had a deep affection for the Ritz Paris. In fact, she once famously said, “I am not young but I feel young.

The day I feel old, I will go to bed and stay there. J’aime la vie! I feel that to live is a wonderful thing.”

Chanel first fell in love with the Ritz during World War II when she was looking for a place to stay while she waited for her lover at the time, Hans Gunther von Dincklage, to return from Germany. She was given a suite at the hotel and quickly fell in love with its luxurious surroundings and impeccable service.

After von Dincklage returned to Germany and their relationship ended, Chanel continued to live at the Ritz on and off for more than three decades until her death in 1971.

How Long Did She Live There?

So just how long did Coco Chanel actually live at the Ritz? The answer isn’t quite so simple.

Chanel first moved into the hotel in 1934 and lived there until 1940 when World War II broke out. During this time, she continued to design clothes and accessories from her suite at the Ritz while also entertaining famous friends like Salvador Dali and Pablo Picasso.

After leaving Paris during the war years, Chanel returned to the city in 1954 and once again took up residence at the Ritz where she remained until her death in 1971. That means that, all told, Chanel lived at the Ritz for more than 30 years.

A Lasting Legacy

Chanel’s time at the Ritz may have been marked by luxury and indulgence, but it also left a lasting legacy. The designer’s presence at the hotel helped to cement its reputation as one of the most glamorous and exclusive destinations in Paris.

Today, visitors to the Ritz can still see some of Chanel’s personal effects on display, including her favorite suite and a bar named in her honor.

Conclusion

Coco Chanel’s relationship with the Ritz Paris was one of luxury, indulgence, and enduring glamour. While she may have only lived there for part of her life, her presence at the hotel helped to shape its reputation as a place where only the most elite and fashionable would dare to stay.

Whether you’re a fashion enthusiast or simply appreciate a good story, there’s no denying that Coco Chanel’s time at the Ritz is one for the history books.