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How the equestrian world inspired the designs of Coco Chanel

Details gleaned on horseback shaped Chanel creations – in particular, the quilted matelassé, that has influenced a complete jewellery collection

It was Étienne Balsan who first introduced a young Gabrielle 'Coco' Chanel to equestrianism. The offspring of wealthy French industrialists, Balsan had cut short his military career as a cavalry officer to instead compete in professional races, play polo and breed horses at the Château de Royallieu, his countryside estate within the vicinity of the annual Prix de Royallieu event.

Balsan and Chanel's relationship lasted for three years, during which Coco took to horseback in her own version of riding gear, appropriating traditionally masculine items such as breeches and tweed jackets...

Please click here to read the rest of the article as it appears on the Tatler website.

Article written by: FELIX BISCHOF

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