As one of the world's most iconic fashion brands, Chanel has produced unforgettable works. From clothing to accessories to perfumes, most Chanel products are made for a timeless appeal. Here, L'OFFICIEL looks at Chanel's most famous releases over the years.
Tweed Outfits
Chanel's most significant fashion innovation was its use of tweed. First produced in the 1920s, Coco Chanel's concept of a suit was to combine masculinity with femininity. She did so using tweed fabric, a fabric that is not generally considered luxurious. To date, tweed linen has been worn by equally iconic women such as Romy Schneider, Jackie Kennedy, Princess Diana, and Anna Wintour. Under the late creative director Karl Lagerfeld, tweed fabrics were seen season after season in a variety of styles including playsuits, blazers, trousers, and even mini skirts.
Chanel No. 5
For nearly 100 years, Chanel No.5 has been the essential beauty product of every woman. Prepared by Russian-born French perfumer Ernest Beaux, Chanel No. 5 is one of the first perfumes to incorporate natural and synthetic ingredients. It's said that Ms. Chanel herself chose the fifth model that Ernest introduced to her, and thus the name was born. One of the most famous fans of this fragrance was Marilyn Monroe. Chanel No. 5 is now the best-selling perfume of all time.
Classic Flap Bag
In the 1920s, Coco Chanel was tired of clunky purses, so she came up with the idea for a bag that is both hands-free and fashionable. Since then, the Chanel pop-up lid was born. However, it wasn't until 1955, after her successful return, that the bag was updated and named 2.55. Over the years, classic open lid bags have been made in a variety of different colors, decorative patterns, and materials.
Upgraded Reissue 2.55 Bag
In 2005, in celebration of the 2.55's 50th anniversary, Chanel released the Reissue 2.55, an exact replica of the original flip bag. The Reissue is characterized by a rectangular twisted lock and chain, inspired by how her childhood orphanage guards used to make keychains. Previously, the name "Reisssue" was only used for the celebration bag, but over time it became used for the original zipper and chain bags. Chanel Reissue 2.55 is available in an array of styles, including seasonal releases.
Slingback Shoes
Two years after creating the 2.55, Chanel introduced two-tone shoes. The beige slingback style is created with contrasting black toes to give the foot a shortened and slimming look. She called it "the pinnacle of elegance." The heel was considered a classic for decades but found a revival in the 2010s. During the Fall/Winter 2015 show, Lagerfeld reintroduced the shoes in several variants: leather, suede, sheepskin, and metallic fabrics, among others.
Ballet Flats
From the invention of the slingback, Chanel created her brand's iconic ballet flats. She explained that the toe would allow her to play sports and move around a lot. The classic Chanel ballet shoes feature the brand's logo stitched on the lid, a ribbon accent, and a slight heel. Over the years, pairs have been made with metallic tones, patent leather, suede, and quilted leather.
Pearl Necklace
Along with clothes and accessories, Chanel was also a force in the jewelry world. In the 30s, fashion maven hired influential Italian jeweler Fulco di Verdura to become the brand's jewelry designer. However, it was her creative vision that is remembered to this day. The designer combined fine jewelry 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 '90s, the double-C emblem appeared on almost everything: handbags, necklaces, shoes, and brooches. However, its use for earrings was every fashion girl's dream. The diamond-studded bobbles continue to be a timeless pair of earrings that can elevate any outfit.
J12 Watch
Launched in 1999, the J12 watch was one of the House's first forays into watchmaking. As a unisex piece, the J12 uses black, white, and titanium ceramic. Currently, the timepiece operates on 33mm quartz movements as well as 38 and 41mm automatic. During the recent redesign, the watch has been updated with a new dial, bezel and crown, and digits. The J12 has famous fans like Emma Watson, Nicky Hilton, and many more.
Strappy Wallet
The strap wallet, also known as "WOC," is a Chanel fan favorite. It's hailed as one of the brand's most versatile bags as you can use it as a crossbody, handbag, shoulder bag, or clutch. Chanel's strappy wallets are made in a variety of models and colors with different closure styles and cap designs.
Boy Bag
The brand's latest emblem is the Boy bag. Although it was only recently released, the Boy bag was designed entirely in honor of Chanel's life and legacy. The accessory takes its name from her first love, Boy Capel, an English polo player who began a relationship with the fashion designer in 1909. The bag was introduced by Lagerfeld in 2011 and found immediate success with its boxy feel and design. The purse uses a thick diagonal leash, vintage accessories, and Chanel's iconic brick buckle. It comes in three sizes: small, medium, and large, as well as a wallet with a strap style.
