Coco Chanel

Coco Chanel was a French fashion designer. She was born Gabrielle Bonheur Chanel in Saumur, France, in 1883. She created the Chanel brand and changed women's fashion forever. She freed women from uncomfortable clothing and made simple elegance popular.

Early Life

Chanel grew up in an orphanage after her mother died. She learned to sew from nuns at the orphanage. She worked as a singer in a cafe, where she got the nickname Coco. She opened her first hat shop in 1910.

Big Achievements

Chanel introduced comfortable clothing for women. She popularized the little black dress, Chanel No. 5 perfume, and the Chanel suit. She made it fashionable for women to wear pants. Her brand is still one of the most famous in the world.

Fun Facts

• Chanel No. 5 was the first perfume to feature a designer's name.
• She introduced the little black dress, which became a fashion staple.
• She was one of the first women to wear pants in public.

Did You Know?

Before Chanel, women's clothing was often heavy and restricting. She said luxury must be comfortable, otherwise it is not luxury. Her designs gave women more freedom in how they dressed and moved.