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Chanel Evening Dresses and Gowns

It wouldn't be very long before Gabrielle “Coco” Chanel (1883–1971) wholly revolutionized women’s wear — and set the fashion world alight with an elegant but versatile little black dress — when she opened her first millinery shop. Chanel’s fluid fabrics for her coveted vintage evening dresses and gowns liberated the female form to enjoy the freedoms that burst upon the cultural scene following the austerity of World War I.

Initially creating hats at 21 rue Cambon in Paris in 1910 with seamstress support from her sister and her aunt, Chanel soon began to also sell clothing based solely on the kinds of garments she liked to wear.

Chanel's comfortable and practical designs encouraged women to leave extravagant clothes behind. She introduced a more casual, less constricting look, debuting uncomplicated skirts, jersey jackets and more in two additional boutiques by 1915. By the 1920s, magazines and notable clientele were lauding Chanel for her innovative couture fashion.

On 1stDibs, many classics from the House of Chanel are on offer — from the revered vintage Chanel mini dresses, gowns, day dresses and silk cocktail dresses that are today the subject of books and museum exhibitions to the celebrated collections created by Karl Lagerfeld, a legend of high fashion who worked to preserve the artistry of haute couture and revitalize the brand when he was appointed a designer at the house in the 1980s.

Because of his track record for reviving and reimagining brands that had grown stagnant, in 1984 Lagerfeld was handed the reins at Chanel, which had been gathering dust since its founder’s heyday. From his first collection, Lagerfeld injected the venerable house with a frisson of modernity. He riffed on its iconography — tweed skirt suits, pearls, camellias — accenting a lexicon of Chanel-isms with tastes of the moment.

Find vintage Chanel dresses of the '90s and other evening dresses and gowns for sale on 1stDibs.

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Designer: Chanel
Chanel Look 1 Paris in Rome Runway Tweed Dress
Chanel Look 1 Paris in Rome Runway Tweed Dress

Chanel Look 1 Paris in Rome Runway Tweed Dress

By Chanel

Located in Hong Kong, HK

Look # 1 tweed dress from Chanel Collection / Paris in ROME / by Karl Lagerfeld Iconic! As seen in Ad Campaign of this beautiful Collection Size mark 36 FR. Kept uworn.

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2010s Chanel Evening Dresses and Gowns

Chanel Vintage S/S 1998 Silver Crystal Chiclet Straps Black 98p Gown Dress
Chanel Vintage S/S 1998 Silver Crystal Chiclet Straps Black 98p Gown Dress

Chanel Vintage S/S 1998 Silver Crystal Chiclet Straps Black 98p Gown Dress

By Chanel

Located in Jersey City, NJ

Meet this exquisite vintage Chanel dress from the iconic Spring/Summer 1998 collection, famously worn by the stunning Naomi Campbell. Crafted from luxurious black wool crepe, its sil...

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1990s French Chanel Evening Dresses and Gowns

Off-white sleeveless evening dress with embroideries CHANEL
Off-white sleeveless evening dress with embroideries CHANEL

Off-white sleeveless evening dress with embroideries CHANEL

By Chanel

Located in Saint-Ouen-Sur-Seine, FR

Off-white sleeveless evening dress with embroideries . Main fabric composition: 79% acetate, 21% rayon. Silk lining. Biais. Hook&eye closure on the top middle back. SIZE 36

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2010s French Chanel Evening Dresses and Gowns

Chanel S/S 2006 Marissa Cooper Bride Camellia Ivory White Evening Wedding Gown
Chanel S/S 2006 Marissa Cooper Bride Camellia Ivory White Evening Wedding Gown

Chanel S/S 2006 Marissa Cooper Bride Camellia Ivory White Evening Wedding Gown

By Chanel, Karl Lagerfeld for Chanel

Located in Jersey City, NJ

Chanel Spring/Summer 2006 cream camellia bride dress, an exceptionally rare and highly collectible final runway look from Karl Lagerfeld’s Spring 2006 collection. This ethereal strap...

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Early 2000s Chanel Evening Dresses and Gowns

Valentino Rare Runway Jeweled Hand Beaded Silk Chiffon Dress Gown Hard to find
Valentino Rare Runway Jeweled Hand Beaded Silk Chiffon Dress Gown Hard to find

Valentino Rare Runway Jeweled Hand Beaded Silk Chiffon Dress Gown Hard to find

By Chanel, Valentino Garavani

Located in Los Angeles, CA

From the 20th - 21st century the exquisite fashion of Valentino Garavani was embraced by society and fashionistas over the world. When he retired in 2008 his brand of elegance, exqu...

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Early 2000s Chanel Evening Dresses and Gowns

1988 Chanel Runway Documented Striped Camelia Print Midi Dress
1988 Chanel Runway Documented Striped Camelia Print Midi Dress

1988 Chanel Runway Documented Striped Camelia Print Midi Dress

By Chanel

Located in London, GB

This documented Chanel dress walked the runway as part of Chanel’s Spring 1988 collection and can just be seen in the background in one of the runway shots. The skirt is tailored fro...

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1980s French Chanel Evening Dresses and Gowns

Vintage 80s Chanel Black Pleated Crepe Dress Deep V-Neck Detachable Satin Cuffs
Vintage 80s Chanel Black Pleated Crepe Dress Deep V-Neck Detachable Satin Cuffs

Vintage 80s Chanel Black Pleated Crepe Dress Deep V-Neck Detachable Satin Cuffs

By Chanel, Karl Lagerfeld

Located in Antwerpen, Vlaams Gewest

Rare Vintage 1980s Chanel Boutique Black Deep V-Neck Pleated Crepe Dress, Designed by Karl Lagerfeld. Step into timeless sophistication with this authentic vintage Chanel Boutique d...

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1980s French Chanel Evening Dresses and Gowns

Chanel Black Sequin Spaghetti Strap Maxi Dress circa 2002
Chanel Black Sequin Spaghetti Strap Maxi Dress circa 2002

Chanel Black Sequin Spaghetti Strap Maxi Dress circa 2002

By Karl Lagerfeld for Chanel, Chanel

Located in Scottsdale, AZ

This Chanel Black Sequin Spaghetti Strap Maxi Dress from circa 2002 is a stunning example of timeless elegance and high-end craftsmanship. The dress features a sleek, figure-hugging ...

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Early 2000s French Chanel Evening Dresses and Gowns

Chanel dress 'Pretes pour le surf' by Karl Lagerfeld Summer 2003
Chanel dress 'Pretes pour le surf' by Karl Lagerfeld Summer 2003

Chanel dress 'Pretes pour le surf' by Karl Lagerfeld Summer 2003

By Chanel, Karl Lagerfeld for Chanel

Located in SAINT-OUEN-SUR-SEINE, FR

CHANEL - 2003 Spring-Summer ready-to-wear "Prêtes pour le surf" Collection under the artistic direction of Karl Lagerfeld. Silk muslin dress embroidered with black and white sequins...

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Early 2000s French Chanel Evening Dresses and Gowns

Chanel S/S 1990 Vintage Bridal Pearl Embellished Pleated Ivory Dress Gown
Chanel S/S 1990 Vintage Bridal Pearl Embellished Pleated Ivory Dress Gown

Chanel S/S 1990 Vintage Bridal Pearl Embellished Pleated Ivory Dress Gown

By Karl Lagerfeld for Chanel, Chanel

Located in Jersey City, NJ

An incredibly rare and collectible piece from Chanel’s Spring/Summer 1990 collection by Karl Lagerfeld. It became an instant icon when Madonna wore it for Vanity Fair cover and edit...

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1990s French Chanel Evening Dresses and Gowns

Chanel F/W 1994 Black Sequin Lace Bow Camellia 94A Mini Dress
Chanel F/W 1994 Black Sequin Lace Bow Camellia 94A Mini Dress

Chanel F/W 1994 Black Sequin Lace Bow Camellia 94A Mini Dress

By Chanel, Karl Lagerfeld for Chanel

Located in Jersey City, NJ

Chanel Fall/Winter 1994 black sequin and lace mini dress, a rare and highly collectible runway piece from one of Karl Lagerfeld’s most charming ’90s collections for the House. This ...

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1990s Chanel Evening Dresses and Gowns

CHANEL 16K$ Paris / Edinburgh Museum Level Tweed Dress 36 FR
CHANEL 16K$ Paris / Edinburgh Museum Level Tweed Dress 36 FR

CHANEL 16K$ Paris / Edinburgh Museum Level Tweed Dress 36 FR

By Chanel

Located in Hong Kong, HK

CHANEL Paris / Edinburgh 2013 Haute Couture Tweed Dress ~ A Mastery Relic of the House — Museum-Level Artefact ~ Estimated boutique value: over $16,000. ~ A sacred text in ...

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2010s Chanel Evening Dresses and Gowns

Chanel Haute Couture S/S 1960 Blush Pink Lace Wheat Dress
Chanel Haute Couture S/S 1960 Blush Pink Lace Wheat Dress

Chanel Haute Couture S/S 1960 Blush Pink Lace Wheat Dress

By Chanel

Located in Jersey City, NJ

Exceptional Chanel Haute Couture Spring/Summer 1960 wheat dress, a rare lifetime Gabrielle Chanel piece and a remarkable example of the house’s late 1950s–early 1960s couture romanticism. Executed in a delicate blush pink tone, the dress is crafted from sheer lace richly embroidered with wheat motifs, a symbol long associated with Gabrielle Chanel and her private world. The surface is beautifully worked with tonal embroidery and subtle iridescent threads, giving the dress a soft, luminous effect as it catches the light. The silhouette is classic early-1960s Chanel couture: sculpted bodice, elegant bateau neckline, softly extended shoulders, defined waist, and a full pleated skirt with a scalloped lace hem. A gold variation of this wheat dress was featured in the landmark Gabrielle Chanel. Fashion Manifesto exhibition, shown at major institutions including Palais Galliera and the Victoria and Albert Museum. The design is also closely associated with Jeanne Moreau, who wore a magnificent Chanel wheat...

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1960s French Chanel Evening Dresses and Gowns

Chanel 1994 Sequin Mini Dress
Chanel 1994 Sequin Mini Dress

Chanel 1994 Sequin Mini Dress

By Chanel, Karl Lagerfeld for Chanel

Located in Norwich, GB

Chanel dark navy blue sequin and black bow mini dress, from the Fall/Winter 1994 RTW collection designed by Karl Lagerfeld. Camellia pin brooch to the front. Gold toned clover button...

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1990s French Chanel Evening Dresses and Gowns

White lace embroidered wedding skirt suit Chanel Couture
White lace embroidered wedding skirt suit Chanel Couture

White lace embroidered wedding skirt suit Chanel Couture

By Chanel

Located in Saint-Ouen-Sur-Seine, FR

White lace embroidered wedding skirt suit. Shoulder pad and chain inside the jacket on the bottom edge. Branded buttons and pockets. Silk jacquard bra...

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2010s French Chanel Evening Dresses and Gowns

Long evening dress with embroidered on lace and velvet back Chanel
Long evening dress with embroidered on lace and velvet back Chanel

Long evening dress with embroidered on lace and velvet back Chanel

By Chanel

Located in Saint-Ouen-Sur-Seine, FR

Long evening dress with embroidered on lace and velvet back. Authenticity hologram

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Early 2000s French Chanel Evening Dresses and Gowns

CHANEL HAUTE COUTURE By KARL LAGERFELD F/W 2007 Runway Dress
CHANEL HAUTE COUTURE By KARL LAGERFELD F/W 2007 Runway Dress

CHANEL HAUTE COUTURE By KARL LAGERFELD F/W 2007 Runway Dress

By Karl Lagerfeld for Chanel, Chanel

Located in Berlin, BE

Chanel Haute Couture by Karl Lagerfeld Couture Collection Fall Winter 2007 Brand: Chanel Designer: Karl Lagerfeld Collection: Fall Winter 2007 Fabric: No fabric label, estimated - S...

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Early 2000s French Chanel Evening Dresses and Gowns

Karl Lagerfeld for Chanel Black Lace Gown
Karl Lagerfeld for Chanel Black Lace Gown

Karl Lagerfeld for Chanel Black Lace Gown

By Chanel, Karl Lagerfeld for Chanel

Located in Sharon, CT

Karl Lagerfeld for Chanel Collection Croisière '84. Black floral motif lace Evening Gown with pink satin sash, fully lined.

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1980s French Chanel Evening Dresses and Gowns

Chanel Cruise 2002 Midnight Blue Jersey & Chiffon Sash 02C Gown
Chanel Cruise 2002 Midnight Blue Jersey & Chiffon Sash 02C Gown

Chanel Cruise 2002 Midnight Blue Jersey & Chiffon Sash 02C Gown

By Karl Lagerfeld for Chanel, Chanel

Located in Jersey City, NJ

The Cruise collections have always been part of the house’s story. Gabrielle Chanel loved to travel and introduced the idea of “cruise” dressing in the 1920s, presenting complete se...

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Early 2000s French Chanel Evening Dresses and Gowns

Chanel by Karl Lagerfeld F/W 1986 Dress
Chanel by Karl Lagerfeld F/W 1986 Dress

Chanel by Karl Lagerfeld F/W 1986 Dress

By Karl Lagerfeld for Chanel, Chanel

Located in Norwich, GB

Chanel by Karl Lagerfeld Fall/Winter 1986 strapless dress. As seen on Veronica Webb on the runway. Black silk with ivory trim. Please note brand/composition tag removed. Chanel stamp...

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1980s Chanel Evening Dresses and Gowns

MUSEUM Chanel F/W 1991 Hip-Hop Baby Blue Silk Taffeta Ballgown
MUSEUM Chanel F/W 1991 Hip-Hop Baby Blue Silk Taffeta Ballgown

MUSEUM Chanel F/W 1991 Hip-Hop Baby Blue Silk Taffeta Ballgown

By Chanel, Karl Lagerfeld for Chanel

Located in Jersey City, NJ

When Karl Lagerfeld closed Chanel’s Fall Winter 1991 ready to wear show with a ballgown, he did not send it out with pearls and satin pumps. He cinched it with an oversized gold CHANEL gladiator...

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1990s French Chanel Evening Dresses and Gowns

Chanel Cruise 2015 Black Gold Crystal Strap 15C Midi LBD Dress
Chanel Cruise 2015 Black Gold Crystal Strap 15C Midi LBD Dress

Chanel Cruise 2015 Black Gold Crystal Strap 15C Midi LBD Dress

By Chanel, Karl Lagerfeld for Chanel

Located in Jersey City, NJ

From Chanel’s Cruise 2015 collection, this elegant little black dress redefines the classic LBD with refined glamour. Cut in a sleek, figure-hugging silhouette, the dress falls to a ...

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2010s Chanel Evening Dresses and Gowns

Chanel Black Silk Cocktail Dress
Chanel Black Silk Cocktail Dress

Chanel Black Silk Cocktail Dress

By Chanel, Karl Lagerfeld for Chanel

Located in Sharon, CT

Karl Lagerfeld for Chanel designed 'little black dress' with black & white spaghetti straps. Lagerfeld continues Chanel's technique of crisscross piecing as a structural device. Met...

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Early 2000s French Chanel Evening Dresses and Gowns

Chanel Spring/Summer 1992 Yellow Tulle Evening Gown by Karl Lagerfield
Chanel Spring/Summer 1992 Yellow Tulle Evening Gown by Karl Lagerfield

Chanel Spring/Summer 1992 Yellow Tulle Evening Gown by Karl Lagerfield

By Chanel

Located in San Francisco, CA

Chanel Spring/Summer 1992 Yellow Tulle Evening Gown by Karl Lagerfeld A rare and elegant example from Karl Lagerfeld's celebrated Spring/Summer 1992 collection for Chanel, this yell...

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1990s Chanel Evening Dresses and Gowns

Documented Chanel By Karl Lagerfeld Runway Metallic Ribbed-Knit Maxi Dress, FW96
Documented Chanel By Karl Lagerfeld Runway Metallic Ribbed-Knit Maxi Dress, FW96

Documented Chanel By Karl Lagerfeld Runway Metallic Ribbed-Knit Maxi Dress, FW96

By Karl Lagerfeld, Chanel

Located in Geneva, CH

Perfect for the inter-seasons, the color of this rare Fall-Winter 1996 Chanel by Karl Lagerfeld t-shirt maxi dress is reminiscent of the holiday season about to begin ! Its twin walk...

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1990s French Chanel Evening Dresses and Gowns

Chanel Silk Charmeuse Ribbon Trim Cocktail Dress Circa 1990s
Chanel Silk Charmeuse Ribbon Trim Cocktail Dress Circa 1990s

Chanel Silk Charmeuse Ribbon Trim Cocktail Dress Circa 1990s

By Chanel

Located in University City, MO

Chanel Silk charmeuse ribbon trim cocktail dress c 1990s Size 34 The elegant Chanel black silk evening dress is designed with slit detail on both shoulders accented with black ribb...

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1990s French Chanel Evening Dresses and Gowns

Chanel Haute Couture by Karl Lagerfeld Embroidered Tulle Ensemble, FW 1996
Chanel Haute Couture by Karl Lagerfeld Embroidered Tulle Ensemble, FW 1996

Chanel Haute Couture by Karl Lagerfeld Embroidered Tulle Ensemble, FW 1996

By Chanel, Karl Lagerfeld for Chanel

Located in London, GB

Chanel Haute Couture evening ensemble by Karl Lagerfeld, comprising a black silk chiffon jumpsuit worn beneath a sleeveless embroidered tulle overdress. The jumpsuit is cut close to ...

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1990s French Chanel Evening Dresses and Gowns

Rare Chanel Haute Couture F/W 1995 Green Bianchini Silk Lesage Beaded Dress
Rare Chanel Haute Couture F/W 1995 Green Bianchini Silk Lesage Beaded Dress

Rare Chanel Haute Couture F/W 1995 Green Bianchini Silk Lesage Beaded Dress

By Chanel, Karl Lagerfeld for Chanel

Located in Jersey City, NJ

A rare Chanel Haute Couture dress from Karl Lagerfeld’s Autumn/Winter 1995–1996 collection - an extraordinary piece of 1990s couture history. Worn on the runway by Trish Goff, this luminous chartreuse Bianchini silk chiffon dress is entirely hand-embroidered by Maison Lesage in vertical cascades of silver bugle beads. The empire-line cut with wide straps highlights the décolleté, while the layered chiffon construction gives the dress fluid movement and lightness. Accompanied by its original matching silk tulle stole with beaded ends, this ensemble offers versatility: the stole may be worn draped as a shawl or styled as a veil, making the dress an exquisite option for a modern bride seeking a couture alternative to tradition. The creation of this dress required over 450 hours of craftsmanship - 200 hours of atelier work and 250 hours of embroidery by Lesage. Provenance: The Mouna Ayoub...

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1990s French Chanel Evening Dresses and Gowns

Rare Chanel Vintage S/S 1989 Grecian Goddess Ivory Gold Pleated Gown
Rare Chanel Vintage S/S 1989 Grecian Goddess Ivory Gold Pleated Gown

Rare Chanel Vintage S/S 1989 Grecian Goddess Ivory Gold Pleated Gown

By Karl Lagerfeld for Chanel, Chanel

Located in Jersey City, NJ

An ethereal and rare Chanel creation from the Spring/Summer 1989 collection, designed under Karl Lagerfeld’s direction. This gown embodies timeless elegance, drawing inspiration from...

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1980s French Chanel Evening Dresses and Gowns

Chanel champagne sequins dress F/W 2001  FR 40
Chanel champagne sequins dress F/W 2001  FR 40

Chanel champagne sequins dress F/W 2001 FR 40

By Chanel

Located in Rubiera, RE

CHANEL dress F/W 2001 collection A-line dress in beige melange tweed and champagne sequins; on the front martingale belt with logo buttons; short sleeve; zip on the back. Size Fr 40...

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Early 2000s French Chanel Evening Dresses and Gowns

2007 Runway Documented Chanel Off-White Sequin Mini Dress
2007 Runway Documented Chanel Off-White Sequin Mini Dress

2007 Runway Documented Chanel Off-White Sequin Mini Dress

By Chanel

Located in London, GB

This party-ready mini-dress walked the runway as part of Chanel’s Spring 2007 ready-to-wear collection (look 58/77). Vogue said of this 1960s-inspired collection, “It was up-tempo, l...

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Early 2000s French Chanel Evening Dresses and Gowns

CHANEL 2011 black white checkered frayed tweed buttons ruched mini dress FR36 S
CHANEL 2011 black white checkered frayed tweed buttons ruched mini dress FR36 S

CHANEL 2011 black white checkered frayed tweed buttons ruched mini dress FR36 S

By Chanel, Karl Lagerfeld

Located in Hong Kong, NT

CHANEL 2011 black white checkered frayed tweed resin buttons ruched mini dress FR36 S Reference: MELK/A00461 Brand: Chanel Designer: Karl Lagerfeld Collection: Cruise 2011 Collection (11C) Material: Polyamide, Blend Color: Black, White Pattern: Checkered Closure: Button Lining: Black Silk Extra Details: This short cap-sleeve dress from CHANEL is crafted from a black and white checkered fantasy woven tweed with raw, heavily frayed perimeter trim bordering the split collar V-neckline, sleeve cuffs, and hemline. The tailored upper bodice features two flat chest flap accent pockets adorned with small, round grey resin buttons. Heavy elasticized vertical ruching...

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21st Century and Contemporary French Chanel Evening Dresses and Gowns

Christian Lacroix Rare Runway Couture Jacket Blouse Ball Skirt, Corset    Grand!
Christian Lacroix Rare Runway Couture Jacket Blouse Ball Skirt, Corset    Grand!

Christian Lacroix Rare Runway Couture Jacket Blouse Ball Skirt, Corset Grand!

By Chanel, Christian Lacroix Paris

Located in Los Angeles, CA

In the early 80's Christian Lacroix was hailed as the new emerging designer of contemporary Haute Couture. And when he opened his own House in 1987 there was no doubt that his extrav...

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1990s Chanel Evening Dresses and Gowns

1990s Chanel Collection 18 Black Chiffon Gown with Gold Chain Belt
1990s Chanel Collection 18 Black Chiffon Gown with Gold Chain Belt

1990s Chanel Collection 18 Black Chiffon Gown with Gold Chain Belt

By Chanel

Located in Toronto, Ontario

Chanel Grecian inspired gown from the 1990s, collection 18. Pleated black silk chiffon with black cut velvet 1.5" thick straps. V neckline with an empire w...

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1990s French Chanel Evening Dresses and Gowns

CHANEL black wool PLEATED Sleeveless Cocktail Dress 36
CHANEL black wool PLEATED Sleeveless Cocktail Dress 36

CHANEL black wool PLEATED Sleeveless Cocktail Dress 36

By Chanel

Located in Zürich, CH

Chanel sleeveless knee-length cocktail dress in back wool (100%) with top and bottom part in black silk (100%). Opens with four rhinestone buttons and a hidden zipper on the back. Li...

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Early 2000s Unknown Chanel Evening Dresses and Gowns

CHANEL 09P white cotton blend chevron puff sleeve CC buttons knit dress FR34 XS
CHANEL 09P white cotton blend chevron puff sleeve CC buttons knit dress FR34 XS

CHANEL 09P white cotton blend chevron puff sleeve CC buttons knit dress FR34 XS

By Chanel, Karl Lagerfeld

Located in Hong Kong, NT

CHANEL 09P white cotton blend chevron puff sleeve CC buttons knit dress FR34 XS Reference: SNKO/A00547 Brand: Chanel Designer: Karl Lagerfeld Collection: 09P Material: Cotton, Blend ...

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21st Century and Contemporary Italian Chanel Evening Dresses and Gowns

1996 Runway Chanel Haute Couture Monochrome Evening Gown
1996 Runway Chanel Haute Couture Monochrome Evening Gown

1996 Runway Chanel Haute Couture Monochrome Evening Gown

By Chanel

Located in London, GB

This elegant Chanel monochrome evening dress was ordered directly from the spectacular Fall 1996 Haute Couture show, held at the Ritz, Paris, in January of that year. It is a long sleeve version of Look 52 and in all other respects is the same as the runway presentation design. Anna Wintour felt that the 1996 Haute Couture collection marked a change in the industry, writing in her editor’s letter for Vogue that this collection “moved daringly and definitively away from the plain, minimal, and vulnerable look that has characterised so many clothes over the past five years”. Even for haute couture, there is an incredible level of craftmanship in this dress which took 140 hours to make plus over 200 hours for the embroidery. The renowned French atelier, Hurel, created and hand-worked the design for Chanel. We understand the price for this dress was over $100,000 and that was back in 1996. The fabric is a translucent silk-chiffon, the top half and the long-sleeves are in charcoal black, and the handkerchief-hem skirt is in a soft, warm white hue. The cloth is detailed with abstract geometric forms in fine chain-stitch embroidery in contrasting monochrome tones that fall the length of the dress. Every single one hand-embellished along the edges with tiny, rounded beads and we estimate several thousand to be present on the dress. The slim cuffs...

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1990s French Chanel Evening Dresses and Gowns

1986 Runway Chanel Gold Black Silk Dress with Detachable Puff Sleeves
1986 Runway Chanel Gold Black Silk Dress with Detachable Puff Sleeves

1986 Runway Chanel Gold Black Silk Dress with Detachable Puff Sleeves

By Chanel

Located in London, GB

This runway documented 1980s Chanel dress is an amazing example of how the chic French fashion house adapted to the era of excess. It walked the runway as part of the brand’s fall 19...

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1980s French Chanel Evening Dresses and Gowns

Chanel 2004 Spring Celadon and Beige Chiffon Dress and Vest
Chanel 2004 Spring Celadon and Beige Chiffon Dress and Vest

Chanel 2004 Spring Celadon and Beige Chiffon Dress and Vest

By Chanel

Located in Toronto, Ontario

Chanel spring 2004 soft taupe and celadon green silk chiffon 2pc cocktail set. Sleeveless raw edged jacket with soft single lapel and self tie at w...

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21st Century and Contemporary French Chanel Evening Dresses and Gowns

Chanel "Cashmere and Vinyl" dress by Karl Lagerfeld, Winter 1987
Chanel "Cashmere and Vinyl" dress by Karl Lagerfeld, Winter 1987

Chanel "Cashmere and Vinyl" dress by Karl Lagerfeld, Winter 1987

By Chanel, Karl Lagerfeld for Chanel

Located in SAINT-OUEN-SUR-SEINE, FR

CHANEL - "Cashmere and Vinyl" Ready-to-Wear Collection Autumn-Winter 1987, under the artistic direction of Karl Lagerfeld. Long strapless dress in black velvet and silk chiffon embr...

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1980s French Chanel Evening Dresses and Gowns

CHANEL Rare Vintage Runway S/S 1994 Black & White Vinyl PVC Raffia Dress
CHANEL Rare Vintage Runway S/S 1994 Black & White Vinyl PVC Raffia Dress

CHANEL Rare Vintage Runway S/S 1994 Black & White Vinyl PVC Raffia Dress

By Karl Lagerfeld for Chanel, Chanel

Located in Woodland Hills, CA

A high-impact piece from Chanel’s Spring/Summer 1994 collection, designed by Karl Lagerfeld. This striking black-and-white mini dress is crafted from glossy raffia-style vinyl, featu...

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1990s French Chanel Evening Dresses and Gowns

Chanel 2008 Vintage Navy Blue Silk Peplum Gown Size 38 by Lagerfeld
Chanel 2008 Vintage Navy Blue Silk Peplum Gown Size 38 by Lagerfeld

Chanel 2008 Vintage Navy Blue Silk Peplum Gown Size 38 by Lagerfeld

By Chanel, Karl Lagerfeld

Located in Beverly Hills, CA

2008 Chanel Silk Charmeuse navy blue silk gown with tag. size 38 fit size 4

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Early 2000s French Chanel Evening Dresses and Gowns

1983 CHANEL Black Long Sleeve Sequin Drop Waist Gown
1983 CHANEL Black Long Sleeve Sequin Drop Waist Gown

1983 CHANEL Black Long Sleeve Sequin Drop Waist Gown

By Karl Lagerfeld for Chanel, Chanel

Located in Beverly Hills, CA

1983 CHANEL Black Long Sleeve Sequin Drop Waist Gown. ( see runway image) - buttons - tulle - sequins Size 6 Bust 34/ Waist 30/ hip

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1980s French Chanel Evening Dresses and Gowns

Chanel Spring 2020 Rooftop Collection White Bouclé Tweed Dress FR 36
Chanel Spring 2020 Rooftop Collection White Bouclé Tweed Dress FR 36

Chanel Spring 2020 Rooftop Collection White Bouclé Tweed Dress FR 36

By Chanel

Located in Woodland Hills, CA

From Chanel’s iconic Spring 2020 rooftop runway collection designed by Virginie Viard, this elegant white bouclé tweed dress exemplifies the enduring sophistication and timeless femi...

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2010s French Chanel Evening Dresses and Gowns

Chanel evening dress by Karl Lagerfeld Fall-Winter 1985
Chanel evening dress by Karl Lagerfeld Fall-Winter 1985

Chanel evening dress by Karl Lagerfeld Fall-Winter 1985

By Karl Lagerfeld for Chanel, Chanel

Located in SAINT-OUEN-SUR-SEINE, FR

CHANEL - 1985 Fall-Winter ready-to-wear Collection under the artistic direction of Karl Lagerfeld. Mauve silk taffeta dress with long sleeves, collar embroidered with costume pearls...

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1980s French Chanel Evening Dresses and Gowns

Chanel Cruise 2009 Fine Knit Frilled Maxi Slip Dress
Chanel Cruise 2009 Fine Knit Frilled Maxi Slip Dress

Chanel Cruise 2009 Fine Knit Frilled Maxi Slip Dress

By Chanel, Karl Lagerfeld for Chanel

Located in London, GB

Utterly exquisite, futuristic fairytale Chanel maxi dress from the Cruise 2009 collection. Look 32 on the runway. In amazing unworn condition. Made from super light, semi sheer cotto...

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Early 2000s French Chanel Evening Dresses and Gowns

Vintage Chanel Navy Bouclé Sheath Dress FR44 Chain Trim CC Logo Zip
Vintage Chanel Navy Bouclé Sheath Dress FR44 Chain Trim CC Logo Zip

Vintage Chanel Navy Bouclé Sheath Dress FR44 Chain Trim CC Logo Zip

By Chanel, Karl Lagerfeld for Chanel

Located in San Diego, CA

Add a timeless vintage Chanel Fall 2012, by Karl Lagerfeld dress to your collection with this authentic Chanel navy blue bouclé tweed sheath dress, a true French couture classic. Cra...

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2010s French Chanel Evening Dresses and Gowns

Black knit and lurex cocktail dress CHANEL Les Métiers d'Art Paris Ritz
Black knit and lurex cocktail dress CHANEL Les Métiers d'Art Paris Ritz

Black knit and lurex cocktail dress CHANEL Les Métiers d'Art Paris Ritz

By Chanel

Located in Saint-Ouen-Sur-Seine, FR

Black knit and lurex cocktail dress. No fabric composition tag but probably cashmere knit. Button and buttonhole closure on the top middle front and on the pockets. SIZE 48 (Fr)

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2010s Chanel Evening Dresses and Gowns

2008 Chanel Navy Silk Dress
2008 Chanel Navy Silk Dress

2008 Chanel Navy Silk Dress

By Karl Lagerfeld, Chanel

Located in Paris, FR

Chanel Navy silk dress featuring a detachable front bow, back neck slit, center back zip opening, with sides bra wires, full silk lining. Composition: 100% Silk Lining: 100% Silk C...

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Early 2000s French Chanel Evening Dresses and Gowns

Chanel black wool dress pre fall 2011 Paris Byzance  FR 46
Chanel black wool dress pre fall 2011 Paris Byzance  FR 46

Chanel black wool dress pre fall 2011 Paris Byzance FR 46

By Chanel

Located in Rubiera, RE

CHANEL Pre-fall 2011 PARIS BYZANCE Métiers d'Art Look 11/67 Black wool jersey dress embellished with 6 jewel ornaments. Size FR 46 Made in France 100% wool ...

Category

2010s French Chanel Evening Dresses and Gowns

Chanel evening dresses and gowns for sale on 1stDibs

1stDibs offers an extraordinary range of authentic Chanel evening dresses and gowns. " If you’re browsing our collection of unique vintage and designer fashion to elevate your daily look or to introduce new colors to the dazzling formal wear in your wardrobe, this designer’s body of work includes elements of purple, red, blue and other tones. Customers interested in this designer might also find the work of Azzedine Alaïa, Versace and Yves Saint Laurent appealing. Find Chanel evening dresses and gowns from top boutiques around the world on 1stDibs, vintage and haute couture. On 1stDibs, the price for these items starts at $399 and tops out at $67,430, while the average work can sell for $2,297..

Shop Vintage and Designer Evening Dresses and Gowns on 1stDibs

With entire museum exhibitions dedicated to examining fashion designers and their creations, we’re finally recognizing that costuming is art. Fashion is a powerful means of self-expression, and sophisticated vintage evening dresses and gowns by our favorite couturier play no small role in making us feel wonderful but, perhaps more importantly, making us feel like ourselves.

Evening dresses over time have conveyed specific statements about social class, position and beliefs. In the 16th century, dresses and gowns were so important that England's Queen Elizabeth I defined rules about what dresses women could wear — guidance included long skirts and fitted bodices. Forward-thinking designers have responded to this history.

Gabrielle “Coco” Chanel reimagined traditionally masculine garments for feminine shapes, and her elegant evening dresses and gowns promoted comfort and grace in women’s wear that had been dominated in the previous century by layers of fabric. French fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent introduced innovative and highly coveted dress designs in the 1960s while at the same time challenging sexist stereotypes about which members of society could wear tuxedos. Works by unconventional British designer John Galliano — featured in houses like Givenchy and Dior — redefined limits that dressmakers faced in terms of material, construction and vision during the late 20th century.

Today’s designers target an increasingly broad audience with their boundary-crossing work, and their tendency to play off of each other’s ideas means that every walk down the runway is also a walk through an entire history of fashion design and dress craftsmanship.

Whether you gravitate toward backless maxi dresses or silk charmeuse gowns by Alexander McQueen or embellished, ruffled floral-print designs by Chloe or Versace, there is an extraordinary collection of vintage and designer evening dresses and gowns waiting for you on 1stDibs.

Questions About Chanel Evening Dresses and Gowns
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    The value of Chanel bags has been steadily increasing for years. This is because each year, they make a “limited run,” which means that there are only so many available to purchase from the Chanel store or expertly vetted platforms from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    There are 310 Chanel boutiques located across the globe; 94 in Asia, 70 in Europe, 10 in the Middle East, 127 in North America, 2 in South America and 6 in Oceania. In addition to the Chanel boutiques, there are many authorized retailers of the Chanel line. Find a collection of expertly vetted Chanel fashions, accessories, and handbags from some of the world’s top reputable boutiques on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
    The cost of a Chanel purse depends on its material, rarity, style and condition. On 1stDibs.com, you can purchase a Chanel purse starting from $280.
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
    Chanel Mademoiselle perfume smells like orange, jasmine, rose, patchouli and vetiver. It is quite a bold and fresh scent.
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
    Chanel is so expensive because it is a top-class designer brand which creates their products from quality raw materials and high production methods while employing some of the top talent in the fashion world. The brand's innovative designs along with its creative marketing strategy make Chanel a highly coveted brand.
  • 1stDibs ExpertJanuary 4, 2022
    Chanel was founded in 1910 by Gabrielle “Coco” Chanel, a French fashion designer who opened a hat boutique in Paris that year. Chanel went on to transform women’s fashion with revolutionary and elegant designs that tore down gender boundaries and freed women from the confining fashions of the day. Find vintage and contemporary Chanel bags, clothing and accessories from some of the world’s top boutiques on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertJanuary 4, 2022
    Chanel bags are made in France and Italy. The contemporary version of Chanel’s 11.12 bag, for instance, starts its life in a small factory in Verneuil-en-Halatte, located 90 minutes north of Paris, where the pieces of lambskin are cut by artisans with six years of training. The pieces are sent to Paris, where embroiderers spend a week embellishing the components, incorporating slight variations that make each bag a one-of-a-kind piece. Then, the leather pieces are shipped back to Verneuil, where craftspeople assemble them by hand into the iconic rectangular shape, complete with intricate piping and beading. Shop a collection of vintage and contemporary Chanel bags from some of the world’s top boutiques on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
    All of Chanel's fine jewelry is made with 18K Gold (both yellow and white) and platinum and all of the diamonds used have very high clarity and color with a perfect set, resulting in some of the highest quality jewelry.
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
    Although some Chanel jewelry contains real freshwater pearls, much of their costume jewelry is made from coated glass, though they are still high quality.
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
    Chanel Matelasse is a quilted Chanel bag. It's an emblem of the Chanel brand. Chanel Matelasse bags and other Chanel bags can be found on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
    Chanel No. 5 smells like a subtle mix of florals, including rose, ylang-ylang, jasmine, lily of the valley and iris, sandalwood, and a hint of vanilla. Chanel No. 5 is one of the most popular scents in the world.
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
    Although costume jewelry is usually more affordable because many Chanel costume pieces have a timeless style as well as good craftsmanship, they hold their value and so can be sold at an expensive price.
  • 1stDibs ExpertJanuary 4, 2022
    Chanel is a luxury French fashion house founded by Gabrielle “Coco” Chanel in 1910. Focused on women’s ready-to-wear clothing and haute couture, Chanel is most famous for the 1921 perfume Chanel No. 5, the 1925 Chanel Suit and the iconic 1926 little black dress, which remains a staple in women’s closets around the world to this day. Shop a collection of vintage and designer Chanel pieces from some of the world’s top boutiques on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
    Depending on the bag's material, a vintage Chanel can be quite expensive. For instance, a vintage crocodile top handle bag costs around $130,000. The classic quilted leather bag is around $10,000.
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
    The latest prices for the Chanel wallet on chain is $3,100. There are many variations of this classic design, with some selling for closer to $2,100.
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
    Yes, Chanel is one of the most desirable luxury brands in the world. This top-class designer brand creates their products from quality raw materials and high production methods while employing some of the best-known talent in the fashion world. Find many Chanel accessories and apparel on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
    A Chanel tote's price can vary on the second depending on size, model, condition, and age. New Chanel small clutches start at around $1,900 while totes and other purses fetch $4,000-$5,000.
  • 1stDibs ExpertJanuary 4, 2022
    Coco Chanel, born Gabrielle Chanel in France in 1883, was a fashion designer who got her nickname during her short-lived career as a cabaret singer. In 1910, she opened a boutique in Paris to sell her hats, which were beloved by the popular French actresses of the era. Her success with hats led her to open the first Chanel Couture House five years later, where she designed and sold women’s sportswear made of jersey — which until then was used to make men’s underwear. Her revolutionary style catapulted her to fame, and in the decades that followed, Coco Chanel remained on the cutting edge of fashion, creating modern, timeless clothing, perfumes and accessories — and, of course, her iconic bags, which are revered to this day. Shop a collection of Chanel from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 13, 2024
    Gabrielle "Coco" Chanel is the founder of Chanel. She established her first shop in 1910 in Paris on rue Cambon, and her boutique drew the attention of the Parisian fashion elite, who popularized her wide-brimmed Chanel Modes hats. Coco opened a sportswear store in the Normandy resort town of Deauville, where she set the tone for her defining sense of style—traditionally masculine garments reimagined for feminine shapes, made from simple jersey fabric. Chanel would go on to become famous for introducing the first-ever handbag to feature a shoulder strap and the little black dress. On 1stDibs, shop a variety of Chanel apparel, bags and accessories.
  • 1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
    The term Chanel Deauville refers to one of a number of bags produced by the French luxury fashion house Chanel. The most well known is the tote bag emblazoned with the Chanel logo. In addition, the brand produced backpacks, bowling bags and makeup bags with a similar logo design. On 1stDibs, shop a variety of Chanel Deauville bags.
  • 1stDibs ExpertMarch 31, 2023
    Chanel is known for its fashion accessories and trailblazing clothing designs, which first appeared in the early 1900s and promoted comfort and grace in women’s wear that had been dominated in the previous century by complicated layers of fabric and cumbersome corsets. Chanel handbags and purses are some of the most well-known and sought-after accessories in the world. With a subtle and chic aesthetic, many of the legendary French house’s crossbody bags, shoulder bags, tote bags and other bags are popular among celebrities and fashion obsessives. On 1stDibs, shop a variety of Chanel clothing, jewelry and accessories.
  • 1stDibs ExpertJune 7, 2024
    The designer at Chanel was Virginie Viard until she stepped away from her role in June of 2024. Viard started as an intern at Chanel in 1987 and became creative director Karl Lagerfeld’s “right arm and my left arm” according to Lagerfeld, who injected Chanel with a frisson of modernity from his first collection at the venerable brand.

    In addition to a five-year stint at Chloé, Viard worked as Lagerfeld’s Chanel studio director until his death in 2019, after which she was named his successor as creative director. Viard’s French bohemian style revisits the past, but always with a fresh eye.

    Viard's successor had yet to be named as of June 2024.

    Find vintage Chanel handbags, evening dresses, jackets and other clothing for sale on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertMarch 13, 2024
    Chanel sells a variety of items. The French luxury fashion house offers ready-to-wear apparel, shoes, jewelry, watches, eyewear, fragrances, cosmetics and skin care products. In addition, Chanel is well known for its small leather goods and bags, such as its iconic 2.55 Flap Bag. On 1stDibs, find a large selection of Chanel apparel and accessories.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    The Chanel Reissue 2.55 is the updated version of the classic Chanel 2.55 handbag. Inspired by Coco Chanel’s original design from 1955, the Reissue 2.55 was released in 2005 as a homage to the original. The reissued version is considered more modern in design with slight modifications in the lock, leather, handle and flaps. Shop a wide range of the Chanel classic 2.55 and the Reissue 2.55 on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    Chanel iridescent is a type of material used by the French luxury fashion house Chanel to produce handbags and other accessories. It is a type of calfskin with a shimmery finish. You'll find a large collection of Chanel bags on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    Chanel is manufactured in a number of locations. The French luxury fashion house has factories in France, Italy and Spain. Their sunglasses come from a factory in Italy. You can find a large selection of Chanel apparel and accessories on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    Chanel is owned by Alain Wertheimer and Gérard Wertheimer. They are the grandsons of Pierre Wertheimer, the business partner of Coco Chanel, who founded the luxury fashion house in 1909. Shop a wide range of Chanel apparel and accessories on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    Whether or not Chanel diamonds are real depends on the piece. Fine jewelry manufactured by the French luxury fashion house features high-quality genuine diamonds certified as conflict free through the Kimberley Process. Fashion jewelry may show off rhinestones or crystals instead of real diamonds. Shop a collection of expertly vetted Chanel diamond gemstone jewelry on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2024
    Yes, all Chanel bags are handmade.

    Authentic Chanel handbags, clutches, shoulder bags and other accessories are made in factories and ateliers located in France and regions of Italy such as Tuscany. Additionally, a town in a remote area of southern Spain called Ubrique is reportedly where luxury brands such as Chanel and Louis Vuitton source their leather products.

    The brand stamp on an authentic Chanel bag will feature a logo that is accompanied by either "Made in Italy" or "Made in France." It will never read "Made in Paris," which is used on the backplate.

    Find vintage Chanel bags and purses on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertJune 15, 2023
    The size of the Chanel GST is around 13.25 inches in length by 9.75 inches in width by 4.75 inches in depth with a strap drop of 9 inches. It is larger than the PST, which measures approximately 9.4 inches by 8.6 inches by 3.5 inches. Shop a selection of Chanel Grand Shopper Tote bags on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertAugust 8, 2024
    Any piece produced more than 20 years ago is considered vintage Chanel. This includes apparel, bags, shoes, jewelry and accessories created anytime after the French luxury fashion house's founding in 1910. Items made within the last 20 years are considered contemporary. On 1stDibs, find a large collection of vintage Chanel pieces from some of the world’s top boutiques.
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 27, 2024
    Coco Chanel is most famous for founding the luxury French fashion house Chanel in 1910. In addition, she is known for creating the first-ever handbag to feature a shoulder strap, the 2.55 Flap Bag, in 1955. Chanel also created the little black dress in 1926. On 1stDibs, find a variety of Chanel apparel, bags, shoes and accessories.
  • 1stDibs ExpertMay 3, 2024
    A few things account for what makes Chanel so special. First, the French luxury fashion house consistently chooses exceptional materials, such as supple genuine leather, wool and silk, for its pieces. During the manufacturing process, Chanel artisans perform much of the work by hand to ensure an unparalleled level of quality. Plus, Chanel has a history of shaping the fashion world with innovative designs, such as what some experts suggest was the first-ever shoulder bag and its iconic “little black dress” (a simple, spare and versatile design compared to most garments of the Jazz Age). Shop a large selection of Chanel apparel, bags, jewelry and accessories on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 16, 2024
    Gabrielle "Coco" Chanel created the brand Chanel. She established her first shop on the rue Cambon in Paris in 1910. Over the decades that followed, she became a pivotal designer of both fashionable casual wear and Paris couture, as well as an icon and arbiter of 20th-century style with her bob haircut and pearls. Shop a wide range of Chanel apparel, bags and accessories on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertMarch 4, 2024
    You can buy Chanel espadrilles in one of Chanel’s boutiques. The website offers a location service that can help you find the nearest official Chanel boutique. Additionally, you may find a new pair of Chanel espadrilles in one of the luxury brand’s authorized retailers’ stores such as Saks Fifth Avenue or Neiman Marcus. Shop a collection of authentic vintage Chanel espadrilles and other Chanel footwear from some of the world’s top boutiques on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertDecember 12, 2023
    To check if your Chanel piece is real, you will typically need to consult an experienced dealer or certified appraiser. Chanel usually does not provide authentication services through its boutiques or customer service centers. However, knowledgeable third-party experts can check the serial numbers and thoroughly examine the piece to make an assessment of its authenticity. Explore a large selection of Chanel pieces on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertJanuary 4, 2022
    The Chanel brand is owned by brothers Alain and Gerard Wertheimer. The Wertheimer brothers, whose grandfather acquired Chanel with his brother in 1924, are very private, known as the fashion industry’s “quietest billionaires.” The brand’s founder, Gabrielle “Coco” Chanel, saw the purchase by French brothers Pierre and Paul Wertheimer as an opportunity to reach more customers, but she tried unsuccessfully to regain control of the house in 1941. Shop our Chanel collection of vintage and new bags, clothing and accessories from some of the world’s top boutiques on 1stDibs.