Coco Chanel
By LMReviews on Oct 6, 2008 in Multicultural Contributors, Multicultural History
Growing up, the only influence Coco Chanel had in my household was the staunch scent of Chanel N˚5 which permeated the apartment signaling that my mother was getting dressed for something special. Then of course as an adult, I heard about the fashion must-have–the classic Chanel suit. Beyond that, I knew nothing else of Chanel.
Some may not be aware that aside from writing novels, book reviews and these sometimes academic blog articles, I also write cosmetic and skincare product reviews. This is not my usual blog fare, but I believe that multiculturalism is more than just various browns and white. There is multiculturalism among Europeans and there are gender and sexual oriented culture differences as well. And I desire to explore them all. Have I said that before? 
Anyway, Lifetime TV, (Yes, I watch that channel occasionally, but I prefer Oxygen or Tru TV) was premiering the film biography of Coco Chanel. I was more interested in this film because 1) the trailers made her seem scandalous and 2) she was being portrayed by Shirley MacLaine, need I say more? LOL. Chanel was born in France and grew up in an orphanage. She started out as a seamstress with an obvious eye for fashion and how clothing should fit. She captivated rich military men and entrepreneurs which brought her to the city of Paris. A seamstress, a mistress, a hat maker, a business woman, a singer, a fashionista, and later a trendsetting fashion mogul, she’s had many labels due to her vast talents. Having endured much tragedy in her personal life, work must always go on for Chanel. Her entrepreneurship led to a trend in fashion that will ever endure. With no sights on being a feminist, she freed women from corsets and long binding skirts. The drab pants of Rosie Riveters inspired her and the classic touch she created in the little black dress has become a staple in every woman’s closet because of its versatility.
While she was not born into French royalty, she claimed it for herself. I doubt if every facet of the movie was true, but the story was inspiring nonetheless. Chanel Company which has outlived its creator by more than 30 years is as unique as she was. Not many other brands conquer every aspect of a market like Chanel has. Take a look at Chanel.com. I had not stopped to consider its reach. It reaches around the world in every area that touches women’s lives. Whether you are looking for that perfect fragrance (what fragrance is more perfect than N˚5), purses, shoes, clothing both professional, glamorous or ready to wear, Chanel can dress you from head to toe. Then there’s the mobile fine art, jewelry, accessories, makeup and skincare, only Chanel underwear was missing. No doubt a market has been created for women and men who are loyal to Chanel in everything they wear. What a powerful business model.
While not the only example, Chanel shows that where you are going has little to do with from where you came.
