What Did Coco Chanel Do in the 1930s?

Coco Chanel, the iconic fashion designer, made significant contributions to the fashion industry in the 1930s. Her designs were revolutionary and inspired many designers that followed her. In this article, we will explore what Coco Chanel did in the 1930s that made her such a prominent figure in the fashion world.

Introduction of the Little Black Dress

In 1926, Coco Chanel introduced the little black dress (LBD) to the world, but it was not until the 1930s that it became a fashion staple. The LBD was a simple yet elegant piece of clothing that could be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. It was an instant hit with women who loved its versatility and timeless style.

Incorporation of Jersey Fabric

Coco Chanel was also known for incorporating jersey fabric into her designs. During a time when luxury fabrics like silk and satin were popular, jersey fabric was considered too casual for high-end fashion. However, Coco saw the potential in this versatile fabric and used it to create comfortable yet stylish clothing.

Collaboration with Salvador Dali

In 1937, Coco Chanel collaborated with Surrealist artist Salvador Dali on a perfume bottle design for her signature fragrance, Chanel No. 5. The result was a unique and innovative design featuring an upside-down glass bottle inside a clear outer bottle.

The Return of Tweed

Tweed had been popular in men’s clothing for years, but Coco Chanel brought it into women’s fashion in the 1930s. She used tweed in many of her designs, including suits and dresses, which helped to make it a popular fabric for women’s clothing.

Use of Costume Jewelry

Coco Chanel also popularized costume jewelry during this decade. She believed that jewelry should complement the outfit rather than overpower it. Therefore, she designed pieces that were simple yet elegant, using faux pearls and other inexpensive materials.

Conclusion

Coco Chanel was a fashion pioneer in the 1930s, introducing new styles and fabrics that would go on to influence fashion trends for decades to come. From the little black dress to tweed suits, her designs were both timeless and innovative.

Her collaboration with Salvador Dali on the Chanel No. 5 perfume bottle showcased her willingness to think outside of the box and her use of costume jewelry highlighted her belief that simplicity is key in fashion. Coco Chanel’s impact on the fashion industry in the 1930s cannot be overstated, and her legacy continues to inspire designers today.