Coco Chanel was a was a French fashion designer well known for founding the Chanel brand. After learning the sew at an early age, Chanel went through many jobs in her early life like as a seamstress and even a brief stint as a theater performer. It was only when she became  calvary officer Étienne Balsan’s mistress did she begin to cultivate the sporty and equestrian style that Chanel would eventually popularize.

 

Chanel opened her first boutique in 1913, and by 1915 her designed had gained noticeable popularity with the upper class. Despite both World Wars putting a temporary halt on her business, Chanel picked right up shortly after the end of World War 2, officially opening the Chanel brand.

 

Chanel exploded in the 1950s and has since become one of the most recognizable fashion brands in the world. In modern times, Chanel branched out from clothing, to sell handbags, and even fragrances.