Coco and Chanel are two names that are often used interchangeably when referring to the iconic French fashion house, but are they really the same thing? In short, no.
Who is Coco Chanel?
Coco Chanel, born Gabrielle Bonheur Chanel in 1883, was the founder of the fashion house that bears her name. She started as a hat maker and quickly rose to fame for her simple yet elegant designs.
Her signature look included tailored suits, little black dresses, and costume jewelry. Coco was known for her avant-garde approach to fashion and was instrumental in shaping women’s style throughout the 20th century.
What is Chanel?
Chanel is a luxury fashion brand founded by Coco Chanel in 1910. Today it is one of the most recognizable names in fashion and is renowned for its classic designs and high-quality craftsmanship. The brand offers a wide range of products including clothing, handbags, shoes, perfume, and makeup.
The Relationship Between Coco and Chanel
Despite being founded by Coco Chanel herself, the fashion house has grown far beyond its founder’s vision. Since her death in 1971, other designers have taken over the helm at Chanel including Karl Lagerfeld who served as creative director from 1983 until his death in 2019. While Coco’s influence can still be felt throughout the brand today, it has evolved into something much bigger than just one person.
The Legacy of Coco
Although she may not be directly involved with the company anymore, Coco’s legacy lives on through her designs and philosophy. She believed that fashion should be functional as well as beautiful and sought to liberate women from restrictive clothing. Her focus on simplicity and practicality set her apart from other designers of her time and continues to inspire new generations of fashion designers today.
The Evolution of Chanel
While Coco’s influence is still present at Chanel, the brand has evolved over time to stay relevant in a rapidly changing fashion landscape. Today, Chanel is known for its classic designs and commitment to quality, but the brand has also embraced new technology and trends. For example, in recent years Chanel has experimented with streetwear-inspired designs and has even launched a line of sneakers.
Conclusion
In summary, Coco Chanel and Chanel are not the same thing. Coco was the founder of the brand and her legacy lives on through her pioneering approach to fashion.
Meanwhile, Chanel has grown into a global luxury brand that continues to evolve with the times while staying true to its roots. Regardless of how you view them, both Coco and Chanel have left an indelible mark on the world of fashion that will continue to inspire designers for generations to come.
- So whenever you hear someone use these two names interchangeably as if they are one thing or when you are confused about whether they are really same or not – Remember that Coco is the founder of the brand while Chanel is a luxury fashion house that grew out of her vision.