Chanel, << shuh NEHL, >> Coco (1883-1971), was an influential French designer of women’s fashions. Her influence came from her sensitivity to the active lives of modern women. Through her choice of fit and fabric, Chanel sought to create designs that allowed freedom of movement. Her designs were noted for simplicity of line that she accented with accessories, often combining real and costume jewelry. The inspiration for her designs came from men’s clothing, but her suits and dresses enhanced the elegance and femininity of the wearer.
Gabrielle Bonheur Chanel was born on Aug. 19, 1883, in Saumur, France. She began her career in 1910 by opening a hat shop. She started making dresses about 1913. She opened a fashion house in Paris in 1919 and introduced her famous Chanel No. 5 perfume in 1922. She retired at the outbreak of World War II in 1939. Chanel reopened her business in 1954, regaining her prominence in the fashion world. She died on Jan. 10, 1971.
