Chanel is one of those giants that exist in the world of fashion literally, a symbol of opulence, class, and sophistication. The story of Chanel is actually an interesting drama with many twists especially during its growth period with the help of the main manager Gabrielle “Coco” Chanel. Coco Chanel who debuted her fashion line in the early part of the twentieth century revolutionized women’s fashion. She launched products which were deemed comfortable, simple and stylish for the women such as Chanel No. 5 – the famous perfume and the black colored dress known as ‘the little black dress’.

This paper explores the innovation and assertion of identity of Chanel which helped it rise up. Chanel changed the orientation of fashion; she liberated women from corsets and came up with superior and stylish garments. Her clothing was minimalist with simply cut garments that had little embellishment, simple colors which was punctuated with hues of white and black, and an emphasis on comfort; she was the epitome of modern fashion.

However, this was not without some difficulty, more especially for Chanel. During the period of the second World War, the brand posted a sharp decline. The social life of Coco Chanel was also rather questionable because she was rumored to have been involved with a Nazi officer and this led to her being removed from the fashion circle for sometime. Unfortunately, the brand’s standing declined as Coco Chanel disappeared from the scene and moved to Switzerland.

The revival of the company was in 1950s when Chanel reestablished her creations retrieving again the position on the map of fashion brands. This proved very much spectacular to the brand as it was a new found era for the brand. The most important innovation during this time was the Chanel 2 model By. 55 handbag which was named after it was launched in February, 1955. The 2. 55 bag came with quilted pattern, chain strap and rectangular lock, which later became the symbols of Chanel’s handbag.

The rebirth of Chanel was also supported by the revival of original styling and the further development which was a trademark of Coco Chanel. The brand once again returned to the category of leaders in the fashion industry and their traditions are still relevant at the present time. Chanel has remained relevant over and over beginning from the Chanel suit all the way to the tweed jacket.

Fashion history lovers will find Chanel’s story to be a source of inspiration as would learn the fact that fashion business is all about hard work and innovations. The events such as; establishment of Chanel, the drop and reviving again is the greatest testimony to its mighty impact to the fashion world.

For further information on the history of Chanel read Crossbody Handbag.