Chanel: When a Dream Becomes a Reality

Coco Chanel said, "A woman with good shoes is never ugly". At first read that might sound slightly offensive to the modern woman. But, when you really break it down, what she's saying is, when you have shoes (or any article of fashion) on your person that makes you feel special, or beautiful, that is what shines through. Confidence is beautiful. I love who I am, I know myself, and what I want out of life. That's the foundation of my confidence, but I can't deny that a good pair of shoes makes me feel like a million bucks. 

When Chanel expanded to include footwear in the 1950's, so was born the Chanel ballerina. 

They have become a staple for anyone who wears designer, namely Chanel. They were a derivative of the classic Chanel two toned pump, but were designed with the idea in mind to bring comfort and freedom to women during a time when that was not the norm. They were thought to be less flattering to the female figure than heels. But that all changed when Audrey Hepburn, the personification of style icon, wore flats in the 1957 movie Funny Face. Hepburn's ability to show the feminine side of flats prompted women everywhere to question the height of their heels. Chanel flats have been a must-have among fashion admirers since those days. And they have been my must-have since fashion's first blip on my radar. 

If you'd like to read more about style icons throughout history who thought "Flats Were Fab" click here.

Years ago, I lived in Southern California. During that time, I was immersed in a world of beauty and fashion. The trends came and went so fast it could make your head spin. I do believe that's where my desire for, and leaning towards the classics, came into play. Trends are fun, and I like to incorporate them into my wardrobe here and there. But my style over the years has evolved into an appreciation for things that stand the test of time. I don't know that I'd invest in a trend, especially when there are usually some really good dupes out there. Chanel is definitely an investment, but these shoes in particular are absolutely timeless, and cannot be duplicated; they are 100% me. 

To me, Chanel is THE luxury brand. From perfume and cosmetics, to all things fashion. Now, I appreciate all luxury (and non luxury) brands and what they, specifically, have to offer. But it's what you do with what they offer that makes it you. Style is unique. Ten women might put on the same pair of shoes, but they'd all look different, because style and creativity is an individual thing. 

My dream shoes have always been, without question or hesitation, a pair of two toned, Chanel ballerinas. They were a dream for me that were put "on the back burner" for so many years. I'd been drooling over them and styling them in my head since those sunshiny days in SoCal.

So, how exactly did these lovelies come into my life? I'll start by saying that my husband is a saint. I'm pretty sure the man would move mountains, in fact, more than mountains, he'd move Heaven and Earth to put a smile on my face. It would take days, and endless hours of typing to really tell you all of the wonderful things he has done for me. So it shouldn't have been a surprise, but oh was it ever, when he got me these shoes to celebrate nine years together (seven married). He knows me well, I appreciate anything he gives me, even if its just a hug or a smile. I am so blessed to have his heart, and his love. But I like practical things. Diamonds may be a girls best friend, but I'd rather have something that I'll really use and love. So he bought me my dream shoes. But they're so much more than shoes. 

I feel like I've had these shoes long enough now, that I can give an honest opinion and review on them, as if Chanel needs a review of any kind, but here's my two cents anyhow. When I first own something this luxurious, I'm honestly afraid to use it. Handbags, and shoes especially, I don't want to take them out into the world. I don't want to ruin them. I'm terrified of every little scuff mark, every puddle, speck of dirt. But once we get to know each other a little bit, I introduce them to the world and really make them a part of my life. There's no use in owning them if I'm just going to stare at them in the box. 

So, on to the details. 

The leather is truly like butter. I have fallen in love with shoes before, and endured some discomfort for the sake of fashion. That is not the case with these beauties. They are as comfortable as they are beautiful. I could easily walk miles in them. They practically form to your feet, and literally feel like slippers. Coco Chanel also said,"Luxury must be comfortable, otherwise it is not luxury". So it makes sense that a pair of shoes by Chanel are the most comfortable designer shoes I have ever worn.

Another thing I love about them is the cut. I am not particularly a fan of "toe cleavage", as they call it. I think some women pull it off just fine, but it's not for me. Again, style and preference are unique. I like that my entire foot is covered in these flats, especially for the fall and winter months. 

I love the two toned look. First of all, its classic Chanel. The idea of the nude shoe with the blacked out toe, was meant to make a women's legs appear longer, and their feet appear smaller. The beige and black is instantly recognizable. They are the most sought after and desirable color when it comes to Chanel shoes. The dual color scheme makes them that much more wearable. They literally go with everything. Or rather, everything else goes with them. The interlocking C's (for Coco Chanel) on the toe are my most favorite part. As pointed out on "Rice and Beans Vintage", this logo is perhaps the most recognizable in the world. Read a little about the history of those C's here.

Stating the obvious here, but I adore these shoes. They are so special to me, because they were a gift from my husband. They remind me of the young girl I was, years ago, drooling over Chanel hoping "one day" they would be mine. And they remind me of who I am now, how I've grown and matured. I appreciate every single thing I have, because between myself and my husband, hard work, sometimes struggle, and at times sacrifice has built our life. We have earned anything and everything we have. And I believe anything that is earned, is more appreciated. Coco Chanel worked so hard to become a pioneer in the fashion world and build her brand, so it's fitting that these shoes for me, are a representation of the hard work my husband and I have put into our life together. Our years together are the most beautiful gift God has given me, but these shoes, my husband's gift to me on this anniversary, are and always will be, priceless. 

Check out these flats at your local Chanel boutique! You can also find them pre-loved at numerous places online! Happy shopping! 

I'd love to hear about your dream fashion item! Leave me a comment here, on Instagram, or twitter! 

Instagram @classicallycurvy

Twitter @classicallycurv

That's all for now.

Love, 

Kate

Sources:

http://www.thebagforum.com/shoe-box/23477-history-popularity-chanel-ballet-flats.html

http://www.vintagefashionguide.com/2015/02/history-chanel-logo/

http://justnowupdates.blogspot.com/2015/06/15-style-icons-who-prove-flats-are-fab.html