Coco Chanel, the iconic fashion designer, lived in various places throughout her life, but one of the most significant locations was her home in Rue Cambon, Paris. Chanel resided in this apartment for a staggering 30 years and transformed it into her workshop, boutique, and living space.
The Early Years
Born as Gabrielle Bonheur Chanel in 1883 in Saumur, France, Chanel had humble beginnings. She grew up in an orphanage and started working as a seamstress at a young age. However, her talent for fashion design soon became apparent, and she started making hats for wealthy clients.
The Move to Rue Cambon
In 1910, Chanel opened her first store on Rue Cambon in Paris. The location was significant as it was close to several other high-end fashion houses. In 1918, she purchased the entire building at 31 Rue Cambon and moved into the second-floor apartment above her store.
Chanel’s apartment was not just a place to live but also served as her creative space. She designed many of her famous collections within its walls and also held private showings for clients here.
The Design of the Apartment
The apartment itself was designed with simplicity and elegance – two hallmarks of Chanel’s fashion aesthetic. The walls were painted beige with black accents – a color scheme that would later become known as “Chanel Beige.”
The living room had large windows that overlooked Rue Cambon and featured plush sofas covered in velvet with gold tassels. A large crystal chandelier hung overhead.
Coco’s Bedroom
Coco’s bedroom was located on the third floor of the building and was accessed via a spiral staircase from the living room. The room had a feminine touch with soft pink curtains draped over the bed and a white fireplace with a mirror above it.
Chanel’s bed was a simple wooden frame with a white duvet cover and black pillows. The room also had a dressing area where Chanel would prepare for her day or night out.
Continuation of the Legacy
Even after Chanel’s death in 1971, her apartment on Rue Cambon remains an iconic location in the fashion world. The building still houses the Chanel headquarters, and the apartment is preserved as it was during Chanel’s time there.
Visitors can take a tour of the space and see where one of the most influential fashion designers of all time lived, worked, and created.
- In conclusion, Coco Chanel lived in her Rue Cambon apartment for 30 years.
- She purchased the entire building in 1918 and transformed the second-floor apartment into her workshop, boutique, and living space.
- The apartment was designed with simplicity and elegance with beige walls and black accents – a color scheme that became known as “Chanel Beige.”
- Visitors can still tour the space today to get a glimpse into one of fashion’s most iconic locations.
So if you’re ever in Paris, be sure to add Rue Cambon to your must-visit list!