PHOTO COURTESY OF CHANEL
C stands for Coco Chanel. Obviously, right? But in the world of Chanel, the letter C stands for so much more than just that. Ready to brush up on your Chanel knowledge by the way of a fun glossary? Here’s some terminology to get you started.
C is for Classic. By that, it refers to the Classic Bag (a.k.a the 11.12) that cemented its place as one of the most important accessories in fashion history. A reinterpretation of the 2.55, the Classic Bag came courtesy of Karl Lagerfeld on his arrival at Chanel in 1983. It’s home to the double C clasp, the double flap, the diamond quilting, and the leather-interlaced metal chain.
PHOTO COURTESY OF CHANEL
C is for Caviar. Yes, a delicacy but no, not the oceanic treasure. At Chanel, Caviar is the fine circular grain that defines the singularity of the calfskin leathers the Classic Bag (and many other styles) showcases. Famously sturdy and resistant to wear, the pebbled-finish leather remains one of the maison’s favourite materials, and one of the chicest at that.
C is for Chevron. A quilting style that traces its roots back to the 1960s, it graced some of Mademoiselle Chanel’s distinctive designs. Defined by its graphic V-shape, the Chevron quilting took inspiration from the traditional weave of men’s tweed. It was thrust back into the limelight with the arrival of Fall-Winter 2011/12 when the Boy Chanel adopted the geometric design on its flap.
