December 1, 2004
Chanel
Chanel is one of today’s best known and highly sought-after fashion brands, and has been practically since it was founded by Coco (Gabrielle) Chanel in 1909. The luxury brand stands out in just about every category-couture, ready-to-wear, accessories, jewelry, shoes, and fragrances. What began as a no-nonsense approach to fashion, designed to let women be comfortable while looking dignified, has been translated into classic, tailored style, especially in ready-to-wear, where the traditional tweed Chanel suit with a nipped-at-the-waist cardigan jacket remains one of the most popular-and most copied-fashion staples.
Karl Lagerfeld, Artistic Director of Chanel joined in 1983, 12 years after Mademoiselle Chanel passed away in 1971. Karl Lagerfeld has adopted Goethe’s famous motto: “Build a better future by expanding on elements of the past.” At Chanel he has changed nothing and everything, interpreting Chanel in his own way with elegance and wit. He would have certainly met Mademoiselle’s approval, since her ideas also often created mini-revolutions before becoming the industry standard.
The iconic, quilted leather Chanel bag is perpetually popular and one of the most knocked-off accessories on Canal Street. Evening gowns tend to have an understated sex appeal and a bit of whimsy, and appear in luxurious fabrics with lots of embellishments.
source: www.nymag.com
