Five Reasons Why Coco Chanel Is Still One Of The Most Influential People In Fashion

Coco Chanel was not only one of the most influential designers of her time, she was also one of the most pioneering and changed women’s relationship with clothes – and style – forever.

From the intertwined double ‘c’ logo, to her signature No. 5 scent, Coco’s connection with the house of Chanel is still as strong and visible today as it was back in 1909 when she founded the Parisian label and from the runway to the high street, her influence continues to flourish.

So, what is Coco Chanel’s enduring legacy - apart from her being the first women to make wearing trousers in public acceptable? From the LBD to the much copied quilted bag, here we pick our top five... 

The Breton Top

Nowadays the striped blue and white Breton top is a sartorial staple, but back in the early 20s, Coco was inspired to recreate the sailor tops worn by French fishermen at the time. 

The Quilted Bag

From Penneys to Topshop, the quilted 2.55 is one of the most copied bag designs of all time. Sick of carrying her handbags, Coco invented the shoulder bag to free up her hands and in doing so, revolutionised accessories forever.

Uber fan Claudia Schiffer nails the Chanel look

The Boucle Jacket

Boxy, cardigan shaped woolen jackets continue to be a wardrobe must and dominate the high street, but the original was designed by Chanel when she created the first skirt suit. 

The Fake Pearls 

As any self-confessed magpie will know, costume jewellery is one of the best ways to transform a simple outfit. From a string of pearls, to oversized ornate bangles, Coco knew how to accessorise any outfit and had no qualms about faking it. 

The LBD

Coco didn't invent the little black dress, but she did make it a popular choice when wearing black from head-to-toe was still considered a fashion faux pas. "Women think about all colors except the absence of color. I have already said that black has it all. White too. Their beauty is absolute,"she said. 

Timeless, relevant and a maverick of her time - Coco Chanel, we salute your style.