Coco Chanel was a fashion icon and businesswoman whose influence is still felt today. However, behind the glamour and success, there was a private life that was shrouded in mystery. One topic that has always piqued people’s curiosity is how many relationships Coco Chanel had.
Early Life of Coco Chanel
Before we delve into her relationships, it is important to understand the early life of Coco Chanel. She was born in 1883 in Saumur, France. Her mother passed away when she was young, and her father left her and her siblings in an orphanage.
It was during her time at the orphanage that she learned how to sew – a skill that would later propel her into the fashion world.
Coco Chanel’s Love Life
Coco Chanel had several high-profile relationships during her lifetime. Let’s take a closer look at some of them:
Étienne Balsan
Étienne Balsan was a wealthy textile heir who introduced Coco Chanel to high society. They started dating when she was 23 years old, and he helped launch her fashion career by introducing her to wealthy clients.
Although their relationship lasted for only three years, it had a profound impact on Coco Chanel’s life. It opened doors for her that would have otherwise been closed, and she drew inspiration from Balsan’s love of horses for some of her designs.
Arthur “Boy” Capel
Arthur “Boy” Capel was another significant person in Coco Chanel’s life. He was an English polo player who also came from wealth.
Their relationship began while Coco Chanel was still involved with Étienne Balsan – though they did not become intimate until after she ended things with Balsan.
Capel is often referred to as the love of Coco Chanel’s life – even though he was married. He helped finance her first shop in Paris and also inspired some of her most iconic designs.
Duke of Westminster
The Duke of Westminster was another wealthy man who had a relationship with Coco Chanel. They met in the early 1920s, and he became a patron of her fashion house.
Despite their significant age difference (he was 22 years older than she was), they had a romantic relationship that lasted for several years.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Coco Chanel had several relationships throughout her life – each of them unique and impactful in their way. Her love life was just as fascinating as her career, and it is no wonder that people are still curious about it today.
As we continue to look back on the life and legacy of Coco Chanel, we can learn much from her determination to succeed despite difficult circumstances – both in her personal life and professional career.