kauguri's
guide to fashion
The Chanel Story - Part 4
Part 1 Part 2 Part 3 Part 4 Part 5
The Chanel logo is an overlapping double 'C' - one facing forward
and the other facing backward. This comes from the name Coco Chanel."Coco"
is the nickname frequently used by Chanel founder, Gabrielle Chanel.
The logo was not trademarked until during the first openings of
Chanel stores. Chanel is currently trying to deal with their logo
being illegally used on cheaper goods, especially on fake handbags.
Countries said to be producing great numbers of fake Chanel handbags
are Vietnam, Thailand and China. An authentic Chanel handbag retails
for around $1500, while fakes usually cost around $60, creating
a demand for the signature style at a cheaper price.
International Quality
While most famous for it's handbags and fragrances, Chanel also
produces shoes, scarves, wallets, and clothing, as well as other
accessories. The classic Chanel suit, most often tweed, easily
costs thousands of dollars. Classic bags are usually made in lambskin,
which is a soft, delicate material, or caviar leather, which has
a more durable pebbled surface. The high prices, however, are
worth what a Chanel buyer receives. High quality, superb workmanship,
and detailed designs have made Chanel internationally recognized
as a leading couture house of the world.
Truths & Controversies
During the early 20th century Chanel was especially known for its quality and innovation. Legend has it that once, when feeling cold, Coco Chanel placed a man's sailor jumper around her neck. Later, when women told her how wonderful she looked in her new woolen shawl, Coco Chanel realized she had started a trend. After Chanel became a high fashion trademark, many brands mimicked her designs; the only difference between the two items is often the higher quality of the Chanel brand.
Much to the dismay of many, Chanel is known to burn its leftover stock. The brand does not want their merchandise to be sold cheaply (as it would damage their reputation), nor does it wish the merchandise to be given away, for the reasons of exclusivity and quality control. There are a few exceptions to this (such as the Chanel sample sales at the end of a season). Chanel goods are sold for less at these sales only if they did not sell in the last.
During World War II, Coco Chanel's relationship with Hans Gunther von Dincklage created controversy. Dincklage was a Nazi officer and was rumored to be Chanel's lover during the occupation of France.
In 2006, Chanel was fined for price fixing together with other perfume brands.
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