She is a household name in the fashion world. Her luxe label graces the shelves of boutiques and department stores everywhere. Her timeless designs are the embodiment of elegance and sophistication. But how much do you really know about the woman behind the Little Black Dress?

Chanel's designs were revolutionary during a time when satin, frills, corsets, and bustles were the norm. Instead she chose to fashion her clothing out of "traditionally masculine materials" like wool jersey, which offered more comfort and movement (source: Entrepreneur). In fact, much of Chanel's designs were inspired by menswear. Just think about her signature collarless tweed suit. Her iconic short bob hairstyle was even a bold statement back then! Over time her fashion empire expanded to include designs for handbags, fragrances, and shoes.

Coco Chanel did not believe in following the trends of her day and was not afraid to experiment with different styles. She was a bold visionary who went against the grain to create a unique look for the modern woman. I hope Chanel's avant-garde approach to fashion can be a source of inspiration as you continue to define and refine your personal style. As this legendary designer once said, "In order to be irreplaceable one must always be different."


To get some ideas on how to incorporate Chanel's style elements in your wardrobe, check out Head to Toe Inspirations from Chanel.