Coco Chanel was born Gabrielle Bonheur Chanel on August 19, 1883, in Saumur, France. Her mother died when she was a young child, and she was raised by her father, who was a traveling salesman. She learned to sew from the nuns who ran the orphanage she was placed in.
After leaving the orphanage, Chanel moved to Paris and worked as a milliner. She soon opened her own shop and quickly became known for her stylish hats. In the 1920s, she introduced her signature little black dress, which became a must-have item for women of fashion.
Chanel's designs were characterized by their simplicity and elegance. She was inspired by the clothes worn by men and by the sportswear of the day. Her clothes were also very comfortable, and they allowed women to move freely.
Chanel was a revolutionary designer who changed the way women dressed. She made it possible for women to be both fashionable and comfortable. Her designs have influenced fashion designers ever since.
Chanel died in Paris on January 10, 1971, at the age of 87. She is considered one of the most influential fashion designers of the 20th century.