Chanel is one of the world’s most recognizable fashion brands, known for its timeless elegance and luxurious designs. But have you ever wondered who designs Chanel clothes? Let’s take a closer look at the creative minds behind this iconic label.
Who was Gabrielle ‘Coco’ Chanel?
Before we dive into the current designers at Chanel, we need to start with the brand’s founder: Gabrielle “Coco” Chanel. Born in France in 1883, Coco revolutionized women’s fashion in the early 20th century with her innovative designs that challenged traditional gender roles and embraced simplicity and comfort.
Among her most famous contributions to fashion are the little black dress, tweed suits, and quilted handbags. Her legacy continues to influence fashion today, more than 50 years after her death.
Karl Lagerfeld: The Longest Reigning Designer
After Coco Chanel passed away in 1971, several designers took over the helm of the brand. However, none made as big an impact as Karl Lagerfeld.
Lagerfeld joined Chanel in 1983 and stayed with the brand until his death in February of 2019. During his tenure at Chanel, Lagerfeld modernized the brand without losing its classic aesthetic. He also introduced new accessories like statement jewelry and oversized sunglasses.
The Creative Director Now: Virginie Viard
Following Lagerfeld’s passing, Virginie Viard was appointed as Creative Director of Chanel in February of 2019. She had worked alongside Lagerfeld for over thirty years as his right-hand woman before taking over as head designer.
Viard’s first collection for Chanel debuted during Paris Fashion Week in September of 2019. The collection paid homage to Coco Chanel’s style while also incorporating modern touches like oversized bows and bold prints.
Collaborators with Chanel
In addition to its in-house designers, Chanel has also collaborated with several artists and designers over the years. Among the most notable are Pharrell Williams, who designed a capsule collection for the brand featuring colorful graffiti-inspired designs, and artist Stephen Sprouse, who created a line of handbags with neon graffiti prints.
The Bottom Line
Chanel’s designs have always been driven by innovation and creativity. From Coco Chanel’s groundbreaking contributions to Karl Lagerfeld’s modern updates to Virginie Viard’s new vision, Chanel remains one of the most influential fashion brands in the world. Who knows who will be next to take over this iconic brand?