Coco Chanel’s first name, as recorded on her birth certificate, was Gabrielle.
She was born Gabrielle Bonheur Chanel in Saumur, France, in 1883. The nickname “Coco” became associated with her during her early career as a café singer, before it became the name by which the world knew her fashion house.
Chanel’s childhood was difficult. After her mother died, she spent part of her youth at the Aubazine Abbey, where the disciplined surroundings influenced the clean lines and restrained colors later associated with her designs.
A common mix-up is assuming Coco was her birth name. It was a professional nickname, while Gabrielle was her given name. Her fashion legacy includes jersey sportswear, costume jewelry, the little black dress, and Chanel No. 5.