The Lady Dior handbag was originally called Chouchou when it launched.
The structured handbag was introduced by Dior in 1994, during Gianfranco Ferré’s tenure as artistic director. At first, it did not carry the name by which it is now globally recognized. The French word “chouchou” can be used as an affectionate term, roughly meaning “favorite” or “darling.”
The bag’s identity changed after it was presented to Diana, Princess of Wales, during her 1995 visit to Paris. Diana was photographed carrying it, and Dior subsequently associated the model with her by naming it Lady Dior.
Chouchou is sometimes confused with Dior fragrance names such as Miss Dior or Diorissimo. Those are separate perfume names, while Chouchou was the handbag’s early name before its royal association established the Lady Dior name.