Coco Chanel is an iconic name in the world of fashion. She revolutionized the industry with her timeless designs that are still popular today.
But have you ever wondered why she was called Coco Chanel? In this article, we’ll explore the origins of her nickname and how it came to be.
The Early Years
Born in Saumur, France in 1883, Gabrielle Bonheur Chanel had a difficult childhood. Her mother passed away when she was only six years old, and her father abandoned her and her siblings soon after. As a result, she spent most of her early years in an orphanage run by nuns.
It was during this time that she acquired her nickname, Coco. The story goes that she used to sing a song called “Qui qu’a vu Coco dans l’Trocadéro?”
to entertain the other children in the orphanage. The song was about a cabaret dancer named Coco who had many admirers.
Early Career
After leaving the orphanage at age 18, Gabrielle began working as a seamstress and singer in small cafes around France. It was during this time that she met Etienne Balsan, a wealthy textile heir who took her under his wing and introduced her to high society.
While living with Balsan, Gabrielle started designing hats as a hobby. Her designs caught the attention of Balsan’s friends, and soon she had orders pouring in for her unique creations.
The Birth of a Fashion Icon
In 1910, Coco met Arthur “Boy” Capel, an English polo player who would become one of her greatest loves and supporters. With his financial backing, she opened up her first boutique in Paris selling hats under the name “Chanel Modes.”
It wasn’t until after World War I that Chanel began designing clothing. Her simple yet elegant designs, which included the iconic little black dress and the Chanel suit, were a departure from the overly ornate styles of the time.
The Legacy Continues
Today, over a century after Gabrielle “Coco” Chanel first started designing, her brand is still one of the most recognizable in the world. Her legacy lives on through the timeless designs she created and her revolutionary approach to fashion.
In conclusion, Coco Chanel’s nickname was acquired during her childhood in an orphanage. Her talent for designing hats and clothing led to her becoming one of the most influential fashion designers of all time. Her contributions to the industry continue to be celebrated and emulated by designers around the world.