Arthur Capel financed Coco Chanel’s first millinery shop.
Capel, known as “Boy” Capel, was an English polo player, businessman, and Chanel’s lover. He provided financial support that helped her move from making hats for acquaintances to running a professional millinery business.
Chanel opened her first shop in Paris in 1910 under the name Chanel Modes. She later expanded to Deauville and Biarritz, where her practical hats and relaxed sportswear attracted fashionable clients.
Capel’s role is sometimes confused with that of Étienne Balsan, who introduced Chanel to wealthy social circles and supported her earlier lifestyle. Capel’s importance was especially direct in financing and encouraging her commercial launch.