Fashion

17 Best quotes from Coco Chanel to live by

An unwavering passion

16.08.2017

By Stephanie Boey

17 Best quotes from Coco Chanel to live by

When it comes to an epochal visionary who has left a legacy so astounding (yet relevant now more than ever), the one name that comes to mind is none other than Gabrielle “Coco” Chanel. The master couturier was one who never backed down from limitations or society’s constraints. From exposing the nape of the neck to making suntans en vogue, Chanel broke all the rules in order to master them, earning her a global recognition defined by a few iconic symbols—including the revolutionary fragrance N°5, tweed jackets, and even the art of pulling off costume jewellery with real diamonds.

 

In tribute to the French designer’s birth today, here are 10 lessons you can glean from her:

 

On working hard for success:

“Nothing replaces work; not titles, not nerve, not luck.”

“Success is most often achieved by those who don’t know that failure is inevitable.”

 

On individuality as your distinction:

“I decided who I wanted to be, and that is who I am.”

“In order to be irreplaceable one must always be different.”

“I am the only volcano in the Auvergne that is not extinct.”

 

On the importance of dressing up:

“Dress shabbily and they remember the dress; dress impeccably and they remember the woman.”

“Dress like you are going to meet your worst enemy today.”

“I don’t understand how a woman can leave the house without fixing herself up a little—if only out of politeness. And then, you never know, maybe that’s the day she has a date with destiny. And it’s best to be as pretty as possible for destiny.”

 

On channeling timelessness:

“Elegance is when the inside is as beautiful as the outside.”

“Simplicity is the keynote of all true elegance.”

 

Watch the latest from Inside Chanel, “Gabrielle: A story of passion” here:

 

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