Founded over a century ago and named after too few female leaders in the fashion industry, Gabrielle “Coco” Chanel, Chanel continues to be one of the leading and the most luxurious French fashion houses in the industry today.
Lovers of vintage French fashion covet the thoughtful design of classic Chanel handbags. The first design originated in the 1920s when Chanel grew tired of carrying her bag in her hand like the prim and proper ladies of her time. She wanted to free up her hands. In a nod to menswear staples, she added a chain strap, inspired by the straps found on soldiers' bags and introduced a style-changing addition to women’s wardrobes in 1929.
The 1920s really launched Coco and her brand into the limelight. She became known for sophisticated outfits topped with often layered with gold costume jewelry as well as introduced new boxy suiting silhouettes, the little black dress, as well as became the first major fashion brand to launch its own perfume, Chanel no. 5.
In 1954, Chanel launched the now iconic 2.55 bag. It included features such as a burgundy leather interior, zippered compartments, an outside pocket for quick access to cash, a quilted diamond pattern on the exterior, and a front lock closure.
In 1983, Karl Lagerfeld was appointed artistic director of Chanel and continued to lead the house for over 30 years until his death in 2019. He can be credited to bringing a more youthful energy to the sophisticated haute couture brand. Vintage lovers seek out Chanel’s silk vintage blouses, cropped boxy Chanel jackets, and bi-color vintage heels.
Value of Chanel products continues to reach new heights as one of the most sought after and premium fashion brands in the world.
