Gabrielle "Coco" Chanel (1883–1971) was a pioneering French fashion designer who transformed women's style with her innovative, elegant designs. Born in Saumur, France, she overcame a challenging childhood in an orphanage to become a cultural icon. Chanel began her career as a seamstress and cabaret singer before opening her first millinery shop in Paris in 1910. Her breakthrough came with the creation of comfortable, chic clothing, including the iconic little black dress and tailored suits, which liberated women from restrictive corsets. In 1921, she launched Chanel No. 5, a revolutionary perfume that remains a global bestseller. Her use of jersey fabric and menswear-inspired designs redefined modern fashion. Despite closing her couture house during World War II, she made a comeback in the 1950s, reestablishing her legacy. Chanel's timeless aesthetic—simple, sophisticated, and bold—continues to influence fashion today, cementing her as a legend.
