Coco Chanel was born on August 19, 1883, in Saumur, France. Her birth name was Gabrielle Bonheur Chanel.
She was raised in an orphanage after her mother's death and learned to sew from the nuns there.
Chanel's nickname 'Coco' came from her time as a cabaret singer, where she performed the songs 'Ko Ko Ri Ko' and 'Qui qu'a vu Coco.'
She opened her first hat shop, Chanel Modes, in Paris in 1910.
Chanel introduced the iconic Chanel No. 5 perfume in 1921, which remains one of the best-selling perfumes in the world.
She popularized the 'little black dress' in the 1920s, making it a staple in women's wardrobes.
Chanel was one of the first designers to use jersey fabric in women's clothing, creating comfortable and practical designs.
She created the Chanel suit, featuring a collarless jacket and well-fitted skirt, which became a symbol of elegant sophistication.
Chanel's famous interlocking 'CC' logo is recognized worldwide as a symbol of luxury.
She had a significant influence on jewelry design, popularizing costume jewelry and mixing precious and semi-precious stones.
During World War II, Chanel closed her fashion house and was rumored to have been involved with a German military officer.
After the war, she faced criticism for her wartime activities but made a successful comeback in the 1950s.
Chanel never married but had several high-profile relationships, including with the Duke of Westminster and composer Igor Stravinsky.
She was known for her strong personality, independence, and sharp wit.
Coco Chanel passed away on January 10, 1971, at the age of 87, but her legacy continues to influence fashion and style.