BACK IN 1932, GABRIELLE CHANEL CREATED BIJOUX DE DIAMANTS, HER FIRST AND ONLY HIGH JEWELLERY COLLECTION, CELEBRATING DIAMONDS AT A TIME OF RECESSION BECAUSE “THEY REPRESENT THE GREATEST VALUE IN THE SMALLEST VOLUME”. THIS MONTH, CHANEL OFFICIALLY LAUNCHES A SERIES OF NOVEL AND OFTEN TRANSFORMABLE DESIGNS INSPIRED BY IT, EACH CELEBRATING AN ICON THAT – HOWEVER SIMPLE – REPRESENTS THE SPIRIT OF THE HOUSE SHE BUILT. HERE, THE STORIES BEHIND FOUR OF THEM.
(This page) As one of fashion’s most famous Leos, the vivacious and confident Coco Chanel had a soft spot for lion emblems (see her apartment). Her connection with the animal was further reinforced following her 1919 visit to Venice, where the majestic creature is featured prominently as a symbol of the city, and where she found solace and inspiration after the death of her lover Boy Capel. Sous le Signe du Lion 18K yellow gold brooch with diamonds. (Opposite) Fun fact: Mademoiselle Chanel reportedly kick-started the trend of sporting a gorgeous sun-kissed tan. While there are no official reports confirming this, the designer was known for her love of tanning in the open – as well as brooches in the shape of the sun that could be found all around her home. Soleil de Chanel 18K white and yellow gold transformable necklace with diamonds. All Chanel Watch and Fine Jewellery
