The history of the Chloé brand

Chloé was founded in 1952 by Gaby Hanoka who was born in Alexandria, Egypt. In 1945 she moves to Paris with her husband Raymond Aghion. It starts with a small collection, but Gaby Aghion is quickly prospering. By being one of the first brands to make luxury ready-to-wear clothing. It turns out that there is a great need for this. Elegant, modern and of high quality.

The first fashion show is held at the Café de Flore in 1957. Until the mid-1960s, Chloé's fashion shows were held in cafes. In 1958 the first designer is hired, Gérard Pipart.

By being romantic, cool and glamorous, Chloé's designs perfectly match the aspirations of young women. This also explains the success. In the 1960s, Gaby Aghion entrusted the brand to a new generation of designers. Gerard Pipart, Maxime de La Falaise, Michèle Rosier, Graziella Fontana and Karl Lagerfeld must take her vision further. Together, this new generation is flourishing under the artistic direction of Gaby Aghion.

For example, Gaby and Maxime de La Falaise design the iconic Embrun, a kind of shirt dress. Whoever wears a shirt dress is carefree, was the statement. Chloé also introduces the silk blouse, which will become an essential part of the brand. Karl Lagerfeld becomes Chloé's most important designer during this time.

In 1972, Chloé opens her first boutique on the corner of rue de Bac and rue de Gribeauval in Paris. For example, the black and white Rachmaninoff dress is very recognizable. Just like the Chloé cape that can be worn in both summer and winter. In 1975 Karl Lagerfeld becomes the designer within Chloé. This year also sees the launch of Chloé's first perfume. This floral, feminine scent became one of the most popular at the time.

In the 80s, fashion shows grew into true parties. Inspiration is drawn from everywhere and collections come to life spectacularly on the catwalk. Karl Lagerfeld gets his inspiration from music and designs the Angkor dress. Around 1987, Lagerfeld leaves the brand and Martine Sitbon takes his place as chief designer.

In 1992 Karl returns to Chloé. His collections are brought to life through the supermodels that defined the 90s. Dresses are painted by hand and show frescoes from the Greek island of Santorini. In 1997 Stella McCartney becomes the creative director at the age of 25, she is the youngest newcomer ever. Stella gives Chloé a sexier and more rock 'n' roll look. Featuring printed t-shirts and low-waisted trousers. By focusing more on British pop and girl power, Chloé appeals to a new target group.

In the 20th century, Chloé will broaden her horizons. By launching accessories such as bags, shoes and small leather products. The second line 'See By Chloé' will also be launched. Stella McCartney leaves Chloé in 2001, her right-hand man Phoebe Philo succeeds her. Phoebe works a lot with leather and launches the Paddington bag. This XXL bag is the first 'It bag' in the fashion world.

In 2006 Chloé introduces the wedges. Wedges are shoes in the shape of a triangle. The wedges define Chloé's shoes. In 2008, Hannah MacGibbon was named creative director. She brings out sophistication in Chloé. Her collections have a soft and confident appearance. 2011 begins with the arrival of Clare Waight Keller. Claire modernizes the brand. Her collections are refined, comfortable and free. During this time, 'the Drew' and 'the Faye' are also added to the Chloé Classics. These classics are shoulder bags.

In 2016 Chloé will start with e-commerce. A year later, Natacha Ramsay-Levi is appointed as creative director. She mainly focuses on ready-to-wear, leather and accessories.