Gabrielle coco chanel biography fashion designers

Early Success
Among the key designers who made a bold and lasting impression on women&#;s fashion in the twentieth century, Gabrielle &#;Coco&#; Chanel (–) deserves special recognition.

Born in Saumur, in the Loire Valley of France, Chanel survived an impoverished childhood and strict convent education. The difficulties of her early life inspired her to pursue a radically different lifestyle, first on the stage, where she acquired the nickname &#;Coco,&#; and then as a milliner.

With the help of one of the male admirers who would provide key financial assistance and social connections over the course of her career, Chanel opened her first shop in Paris in , followed by another in the resort town of Deauville.

Selling hats and a limited line of garments, Chanel&#;s shops developed a dedicated clientele who quickly made her practical sportswear a great success. Much of Chanel&#;s clothing was made of jersey, a choice of fabri