* Simplicity and Comfort: While other women were corseted, heavily draped in ornate fabrics, and laden with embellishments, Chanel favored simple, comfortable designs that allowed freedom of movement. She often wore loose-fitting jersey knit dresses and sweaters, materials that were previously used primarily for men's underwear.
* Masculine Influence: Chanel borrowed elements from menswear, incorporating them into her designs. She popularized trousers for women, tailored suits inspired by men's tailoring, and even elements like blazers and boating jackets. This was a radical departure from the hyper-feminine styles of the time.
* Shorter Hemlines: As hemlines gradually rose in the 1920s, Chanel was at the forefront, advocating for shorter skirts that ended at the calf, allowing women to walk and dance more easily.
* Functional Elegance: Chanel believed that clothing should be practical as well as beautiful. She designed clothes that were easy to wear, easy to care for, and suitable for a modern, active lifestyle.
* Use of Jersey: Chanel was one of the first high fashion designers to make dresses out of jersey knit, which was normally used to make men's underwear.
* Jewelry: Chanel loved costume jewelry and wore layers of necklaces, bracelets, and brooches. She encouraged women to mix real and fake jewelry, making it a fashion statement rather than just a symbol of wealth.
* The Little Black Dress: Chanel is often credited with popularizing the "little black dress" (LBD), a simple, versatile garment that became a wardrobe staple for women of all classes. Before Chanel, black was primarily associated with mourning.
* Sportswear Inspiration: Chanel's designs were influenced by sportswear, reflecting the growing interest in outdoor activities and a more relaxed lifestyle.
* Tan skin: Chanel was one of the first trendsetters to popularize tanned skin. At the time pale skin had been the standard for high society, and tan skin was associated with the working class.