The Controversy Of Coco Chanel

In the 1920’s, the world was in a state of change and a forward-thinking young French designer capitalized on this change by paving a new path into fashion design that would revolutionized not only the way women viewed fashion, but also the way they viewed themselves. She would forever close the gender gap in the fashion industry and create a line of clothing that would send the corset on its farewell journey. Women everywhere embraced this change and Coco Chanel would become a household name as a trendsetter and eventual fashion icon, but the road to success was often bumpy and filled with controversy. Coco Chanel was born Gabrielle Bonheur Chanel, on August 19th, 1883 in Saumur, France. Chanel's early life was spent in poverty and

She took a color once associated with mourning and poverty and transformed it into a chic and classy wear that could be worn as evening wear. Chanel also designed costumes for the Ballets Russes and Jean Cocteau’s play Orphee. Not only did chanel specialize in the fashion industry, she also specialized in makeup. Chanel was an inspiration to sun kissed skin. For decades, tanned skin was labeled as farmers and poor folk. Having pale skin meant you were wealthy and didn't have to work in the heat. After the industrial revolution brought the work force indoors, the look of poor shifted to ultra pale skin. Chanel brought forth this look and not only supported her look on herself, but also bronzed her mannequins that displayed her clothing (Stalder, Erika. “Coco Chanel.” The Look Book: 50 Iconic Beauties and How to Achieve Their Signature Styles, page

Chanel fired her employees and closed all shops. During the German Occupation of France, Chanel got involved with a German Military officer, Hans Gunther Von Dincklage. Chanel was questioned about her relationship with Gunther, some people have rumored that Winston Churchill, british prime minister, worked behind the scenes on behalf of Chanel. (“Coco Chanel.” Biography.com, A&E Networks Television, 10 Jan. 2017, 5)

Chanel moved to Switzerland in 1945 after WWII had ended. She stayed in Switzerland until 1954. She returned to Paris with her personal life in order, and ready to put her career back on track. When she returned she noticed the fashion industry had drastically shifted. She rebelled from the modern style of the time with the introduction of pea jackets and bell-bottoms for women. Her new collection was a major hit in the United States. Hollywood stars including Audrey Hepburn and Grace Kelly fell in love with her effortlessly stylish boxy cardigan suits (Lifetime UK