When it comes to fashion, there are few names as iconic as Chanel. The brand has been synonymous with luxury and sophistication for decades, and much of that is thanks to its founder, Gabrielle “Coco” Chanel.
However, when Coco passed away in 1971, the question on everyone’s mind was: who would take over the reins of this beloved fashion house? In this article, we’ll explore the answer to that question and delve into the history of Chanel after Coco’s death.
Chanel Before Coco’s Death
Before we dive into the post-Coco era, let’s take a brief look at what Chanel was like when its founder was still alive. Gabrielle “Coco” Chanel founded the brand in 1909 and quickly became known for her innovative designs that challenged traditional gender norms. She popularized classic pieces like the little black dress and introduced new materials such as jersey fabric into high fashion.
However, it wasn’t just her designs that made Coco a trailblazer in the fashion world. She was also one of the first designers to create a brand image around herself as a person. Her signature look – consisting of pearls, simple suits, and a sleek bob haircut – became just as iconic as her designs themselves.
Chanel After Coco’s Death
When Coco passed away in 1971 at the age of 87, many wondered what would become of her eponymous brand. The answer came in the form of designer Karl Lagerfeld.
Lagerfeld had already made a name for himself in the fashion world prior to joining Chanel. He had worked for brands such as Balmain and Fendi, but it was his work at Chanel that truly cemented his place in fashion history.
Under Lagerfeld’s leadership, Chanel continued to thrive and evolve while still staying true to its roots. He introduced new designs while also paying homage to Coco’s legacy. For example, he incorporated her signature tweed fabric into many of his collections and even brought back the classic Chanel handbag with the interlocking “C” logo.
In addition to his design work, Lagerfeld also helped turn Chanel into a global brand. He expanded the company’s reach by opening new stores around the world and launching successful marketing campaigns.
Chanel Today
Karl Lagerfeld remained at the helm of Chanel until his death in 2019. Since then, the brand has been led by Virginie Viard, who had previously worked under Lagerfeld as artistic director of fashion collections.
Under Viard’s leadership, Chanel has continued to evolve while still staying true to its iconic image. She has introduced new designs that incorporate modern elements while also paying homage to Chanel’s history. For example, her Spring/Summer 2021 collection included pieces that were inspired by Coco’s love of horseback riding.
Overall, Chanel has remained one of the most beloved and influential fashion brands in history – even after the passing of its founder. With Lagerfeld and now Viard at the helm, it seems that this iconic brand will continue to thrive for many years to come.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while Coco Chanel may no longer be with us, her legacy lives on through her eponymous brand. Karl Lagerfeld helped guide Chanel through a post-Coco era and turned it into a global powerhouse.
Now under Virginie Viard’s leadership, Chanel continues to innovate while still honoring its rich history. It will be exciting to see what the future holds for this iconic fashion house.