Tweed, Pearls, and More: The Timeless Icons of Chanel
On the 54th anniversary of Coco Chanel’s death, the world reflects on the enduring legacy of one of fashion’s most revolutionary designers. So we’ve decided to pay tribute to some of her most iconic pieces.
Tweed Outfits
Chanel’s greatest fashion innovation was its use of tweed. First introduced in the 1920s, she revolutionized the concept of a suit by blending masculinity with femininity, using this fabric, which was not traditionally considered luxurious.
Since then, tweed has become a style signature, worn by equally iconic women like Romy Schneider, Jackie Kennedy, Princess Diana, and Anna Wintour. Under the late creative director Karl Lagerfeld, tweed was reinvented season after season, appearing in styles ranging from playsuits to blazers, trousers, and even mini skirts.
Chanel No. 5
For almost a century, Chanel No. 5 has been a must-have beauty product for every woman. Created by Russian-born French perfumer Ernest Beaux, it was one of the first perfumes to combine both natural and synthetic ingredients.
It’s said that Ms. Chanel herself selected the fifth formula presented to her by Ernest, and thus the name was born. One of the most famous admirers of this fragrance was Marilyn Monroe. This fragance remains the best-selling perfume of all time today.
Classic Flap Bag
In the 1920s, Coco, tired of bulky purses, came up with the idea for a bag that would be both hands-free and stylish.
This led to the creation of the Chanel flap bag. However, it wasn’t until 1955, after her successful return, that the bag was updated and named 2.55.
Over the years, this classic open-lid bag has been produced in various colors, decorative patterns, and materials, becoming a true symbol of the brand.
Ballet Flats
Chanel also left a mark in footwear with the creation of its iconic ballet flats. Inspired by her desire for comfort and freedom of movement, these classic shoes feature the brand’s logo stitched on the lid, a ribbon accent, and a slight heel.
Over the years, the ballet flats have been made in metallic tones, patent leather, suede, and quilted leather.
Pearl Necklace
In addition to her work with clothing and accessories, Chanel was also a force in the jewelry world. In the 1930s, the fashion icon hired influential Italian jeweler Fulco di Verdura to design the brand’s jewelry.
However, it was her own creative vision that remains most remembered. She transformed fine jewelry by integrating it with clothing, making it a trend in the fashion world. Today, Chanel’s pearl necklace is one of the brand’s most iconic pieces.
Double-C Earrings
In the 1990s, the double-C logo appeared on nearly everything: handbags, necklaces, shoes, and brooches. However, its use on earrings became the dream of every fashion enthusiast. These diamond-studded earrings continue to be a timeless accessory that can elevate any outfit.
Boy Bag
One of Chanel’s latest emblems is the Boy bag. Though introduced more recently, the Boy bag was designed entirely as a tribute to Coco Chanel’s life and legacy. The bag is named after her first love, Boy Capel, an English polo player with whom she began a relationship in 1909.
The bag was introduced by Lagerfeld in 2011 and immediately found success due to its boxy structure and modern design. It features a thick diagonal strap, vintage-style accessories, and Chanel’s iconic rectangular buckle. Available in small, medium, and large sizes, the Boy bag also comes in a wallet-on-chain style.
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