Coco Chanel is undoubtedly one of the most iconic and influential fashion designers in history. With her timeless designs, she revolutionized women’s fashion and created a lasting legacy that still inspires designers today.
However, Coco Chanel’s influence extends beyond just her designs – even the logo of her eponymous brand has become an iconic symbol of sophistication and style. But who created the Coco Chanel logo? Let’s dive into the history behind this famous logo.
The Origins of the Coco Chanel Logo
The Coco Chanel logo features two interlocking letters – a “C” and a “C.” This simple yet elegant design has become synonymous with the brand, but it wasn’t always the case. In fact, when Gabrielle “Coco” Chanel first started her fashion house in 1910, she didn’t have a logo at all.
It wasn’t until 1925 that Coco Chanel commissioned an artist to create a logo for her brand. The artist she chose was none other than Paul Iribe, a prominent Illustrator and designer of the time. Iribe was known for his Art Deco style, which emphasized clean lines and geometric shapes – qualities that would later be reflected in the Coco Chanel logo.
The Inspiration Behind the Logo
So where did Iribe draw inspiration for the Coco Chanel logo? According to legend, he was inspired by two sources – first, he was inspired by the stained glass windows at Aubazine Abbey in central France. These windows featured interlocking arches that formed a pattern similar to that of the Coco Chanel logo.
Secondly, Iribe was reportedly inspired by an image he saw of Gabrielle Chanel herself – specifically, an image of her wearing a belted dress with interlocking Cs on either side. This image may have given Iribe the idea to incorporate interlocking Cs into his design for the Coco Chanel logo.
The Evolution of the Logo
Over the years, the Coco Chanel logo has undergone some changes – albeit subtle ones. In the 1950s, for example, the logo was slightly modified to give it a more streamlined appearance. The interlocking Cs were made thinner and longer, and the overall shape of the logo was made more elongated.
In recent years, the Coco Chanel logo has remained largely unchanged – a testament to its timeless design and enduring appeal. Today, it can be seen on everything from handbags and shoes to clothing and accessories.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while Coco Chanel may have been responsible for revolutionizing women’s fashion, it was Paul Iribe who created the iconic interlocking Cs that have become synonymous with her brand. With its clean lines and elegant simplicity, the Coco Chanel logo is a testament to both Iribe’s artistic vision and Gabrielle Chanel’s enduring legacy in fashion.