Gabrielle Chanel: 60 Years of Fashion

As one of the most successful fashion houses in existence, Chanel owes much to the templates first laid down by its founder - Gabrielle 'Coco' Chanel (1883-1971).

Some of her most celebrated designs, such as the two-piece suit, the little black dress and the quilted handbag, remain in vogue to this day. Chanel designed first and foremost for herself: by creating clothes fit for an independent and active lifestyle, she anticipated the needs and wants of the modern woman.