The History of Chanel Tweed

The History of Chanel Tweed

When you think of Chanel you likely picture a classic tweed suit. That is because their tweed suits have become iconic in the fashion world, known for their timeless elegance and impeccable craftsmanship. So, where did this phenomenon stem from? The history of Chanel tweed suits can be traced back to the early 1920s when Gabrielle "Coco" Chanel introduced them to the design scene. Coco Chanel revolutionized women's fashion by creating suits that were both comfortable and sophisticated, breaking away from the restrictive and ornate styles of the time. Along with Chanel's costume jewelry, which you can read about here, tweed suits have become a staple to the brands notable identity. 

The significance of these tweed suits lies in their ability to empower women and redefine femininity. Coco Chanel believed that women should have the freedom to move and express themselves without sacrificing style, just as men at the time were able to do. Coco Chanel actually took inspiration for the suit from wearing her significant other's clothing. She noted how free she felt and the newfound sense of power that took over when wearing his clothing. So, she decided to ditch the corsets and create the same thing for women to wear. The tweed fabric used in these suits was a departure from traditional materials, as it provided a unique texture and durability. The suits were designed with a boxy silhouette, featuring a collarless jacket, slim skirt, and signature gold buttons. This design allowed women to feel confident and empowered, while still maintaining a sense of femininity. 

Over the years, tweed suits have remained a symbol of luxury and sophistication. They have been worn by various influential women in history such as Jackie Kennedy and Princess Diana, further cementing their status as a fashion staple. The attention to detail and craftsmanship that goes into creating these suits is unparalleled, with each piece being meticulously handcrafted by skilled artisans. The use of high-quality tweed fabric ensures that the suits not only look exquisite but also stand the test of time. Click here to read WWD's article about all the fabulous women who have sported the brand's tweed suit throughout the years.

Today, the house of Chanel continues to implement tweed into almost every aspect of the brand's identity and image. Coco Chanel's successors such as Karl Lagerfeld and Virginie Vard have designed tweed dresses, tops, pants, shoes, pins and even handbags! The brand's ready-to-wear runways often feature head to toe tweed looks. You can spot the iconic textile from a mile away and know what brand makes it without even seeing a label. Whether she anticipated it or not, Coco Chanel created one of the most iconic brand staples in fashion history.

We believe that the best way to shop for these iconic suits is by buying them secondhand. Vintage Chanel has a quality and look that just can't be replicated in modern fashion. Luckily for our customers, Michael's Luxury Consignment gets new Chanel pieces in every day. Our Chanel section, both in store and online, is made up of tons of rare vintage pieces that are hard to get your hands on. Step into the past with one of our elegant suits or impeccably tailored dresses and blazers. You'll soon realize why Chanel tweed has the legacy that it does!

Evidently, tweed suits have a rich history and hold great significance in the world of fashion. They represent Coco Chanel's vision of empowering women through comfortable yet stylish clothing. These suits have become synonymous with elegance and have been embraced by women of all generations. The timeless appeal and impeccable craftsmanship of Chanel tweed suits continue to make them a coveted item in the fashion industry.