100 Designs That Encapsulate the Power of Chanel 1stDibs Introspective Chanel Goes to the Opera in a Gleaming but Designer Less Couture Collection The iconic French fashion designer, Coco Chanel, was the pioneer for the "Little Black Dress" since 1926, which would become a symbol of timelessness, sophistication, intrigue, class and sensuality. With the allure 1924 French Dress Design by Gabrielle Chanel