When it comes to luxury fashion, Chanel is one of the most iconic brands in the world. From their classic tweed suits to their signature quilted handbags, Chanel has been a staple in high-end fashion for over a century.
One aspect of Chanel’s designs that has changed over time is their hardware. Let’s take a closer look at when and why Chanel made these changes.
Chanel’s Early Hardware
When Gabrielle “Coco” Chanel first started designing handbags in the 1920s, she used simple metal hardware with no branding. The hardware was typically gold or silver-tone and featured a simple design, such as a rectangular turn-lock closure. This hardware was meant to be understated and elegant, allowing the focus to be on the quality of the materials and craftsmanship.
The Introduction of Interlocking CCs
In the 1980s, Karl Lagerfeld took over as Chanel’s creative director and introduced a new logo for the brand. This logo featured interlocking CCs (for Coco Chanel) that became an instantly recognizable symbol of luxury. With this new logo came new hardware for Chanel’s handbags – interlocking CC turn-lock closures replaced the simple rectangular closures used previously.
Changes in Hardware Finish
In addition to updating the design of their hardware, Chanel also made changes to the finish used on their metal pieces. In the 1920s and 1930s, gold-tone hardware was more commonly used on Chanel bags.
However, as time went on and fashion trends changed, silver-tone became more popular. Today, both gold-tone and silver-tone hardware can be found on various styles of Chanel bags.
Recent Hardware Changes
In recent years, there have been some changes to Chanel’s hardware once again. One notable change has been the use of ruthenium – a dark, gunmetal-like finish – on some of their bags.
This gives the hardware a more edgy, modern look that appeals to younger consumers. Additionally, Chanel has introduced new hardware designs on some of their limited edition bags, such as the “Boy” bag.
Conclusion
Chanel’s hardware has undergone several changes over the years, from simple metal closures to iconic interlocking CCs and beyond. These changes have been influenced by fashion trends and the vision of each creative director who has led the brand.
While some Chanel fans prefer the classic look of the brand’s early hardware, others appreciate the modern updates that have been made in recent years. Regardless of personal preference, one thing is certain – Chanel’s commitment to quality and attention to detail remains unchanged.