CoCo Chanel
August 19, 1883-January 10, 1971
Coco Chanel (Gabrielle Bonheur Chanel) was born in Saumur, France. She lived an exciting life; full of mysteries, love, rumors, and Fashion.
At a young age Chanel was poor, her mother passed away at the age of 32. After her mother passed her father shipped her and her two sisters to Aubazine, which ran an orphanage. While their Chanel learn how to sew. After leaving the orphanage at the age of 18, Chanel’s passion took her around the World. But, her experience made her a true fashionista.
Chanel didn’t always want to be in fashion…the stage is where she originally desired to be, but it wasn’t in the cards. I am so glad it wasn’t. Researching Chanel’s journey was exhilarating. The twists and turns, love triangles, betrayals, drugs, and sex. I truly feel her life was made for the movie screen. Check out some of her story http://www.biography.com/people/coco-chanel-9244165
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Coco_Chanel
**************Beginning of her Career*****************
In 1910, Chanel opened her first shop that only sold hats. The hat Boutique flourished in 1912, when theater Actress Gabrielle Dorziat wore a hat designed by Chanel in the Play; “Bel Ami”. After much success with the hat boutique, Chanel open a Boutique in Deauville, which sold deluxe casual wear and sporting clothing. In 1918, Chanel purchased the entire building at 31 rue Cambon, which was situated in one of the most fashionable districts of Paris. In 1921, she opened what may be considered an early incarnation of the fashion boutique, featuring clothing, hats, and accessories, later expanded to offer jewelry and fragrance. By 1927, Chanel owned five properties on the rue Cambon, encompassing buildings numbered 23 to 31.
In 1924, Chanel lost the monetary rights to “Chanel no.5” perfume
FYI
- Have you ever wondered how was got the “CoCo” nickname? It was said, her nickname was given by her friends because she had the most lavish Cocaine parties of the era.
- Chanel was the only Fashion Designer to be name in Time Magazine’s 100 most Influential people.
Fashionista………….
By 1970 Chanel was worth 19 Billion Dollars. Her journey from Orphan to Icon was so full of life and I encourage you to read more about CoCo Chanel; Woman of Grind.
Through Criticisms, rumors, and disappointments, CoCo Chanel did not give up on history dreams. Quoting: “May my legend prosper and thrive. I wish it a long and happy life.” And, it has. Chanel’s net worth in 2015 was 118 Billion Dollars. I can truly say, “I am glad you didn’t give up.”
Check out more Female Grinders as https://www.entrepreneur.com/article/217929