Where Did Chanel Live in Paris?

By Michael Ferguson

Chanel is one of the most iconic fashion brands in the world, and it all started with Coco Chanel. Chanel was born in Saumur, France, but she moved to Paris to pursue her dreams of becoming a fashion designer. Paris was where Chanel made her mark on the fashion world, and it was also where she lived for most of her life.

Chanel’s first apartment in Paris was located at 160 Boulevard Malesherbes. She lived there with her lover, Étienne Balsan, who was a wealthy textile heir. The apartment building still stands today and is now a popular tourist attraction.

After her relationship with Balsan ended, Chanel moved into a new apartment at 29 Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré. This apartment was located above her first boutique, which opened in 1910. The boutique sold hats at first but eventually expanded to sell clothing and accessories as well.

Chanel’s success continued to grow, and she eventually purchased an entire building at 31 Rue Cambon. This building became the headquarters for the Chanel brand and is still used by the company today. The building has four floors and includes a showroom, offices, and even an apartment that Chanel used as a private space.

One of the most famous parts of the Rue Cambon building is the staircase that leads up to Chanel’s apartment. The staircase is lined with mirrors so that Chanel could check her reflection from multiple angles as she ascended or descended.

Chanel’s final home in Paris was at 29 Rue de l’Université. She purchased this apartment in the late 1950s and lived there until her death in 1971. Although this apartment wasn’t directly connected to the Chanel brand like her previous homes were, it still holds historical significance because it was where she spent her final years.

In conclusion, Coco Chanel lived in several different apartments throughout Paris during her lifetime. Each of these apartments played a significant role in her personal and professional life, and they continue to be an important part of the Chanel brand’s history. If you’re ever in Paris, be sure to visit some of these locations to get a glimpse into the life of one of the most influential fashion designers of all time.