Coco Chanel" is a name that instantly conjures images. It may be her signature perfume, Chanel No. 5. You might see the classic Chanel suit: slim skirt, tweed fabric, collarless suit jacket and gold accents. Coco Chanel, born Gabrielle Chanel in 1883, created those items, but accomplished much more. She overcame significant obstacles to become a fashion icon and found a fashion empire still flourishing today. generated controversy, particularly her behaviour during the German occupation of France in World War II.[3]