Gabrielle "Coco" Chanel was born in western France in 1883. Unlike her glamorous image, she did not have a happy childhood. According to her version of her life story, at the age of 12 her mother died of tuberculois (肺结核) and her father abandoned her along with her four siblings. For seven years, Coco lived in an orphanage. At the age of 18, she left there to work for a local tailor. During this time, she met a millionaire cavalry officer (骑兵军官). He lavished her with luxurious items such as jewelry and fine clothes. Coco acquired the tastes of the upper classes. In 1912, she opened her first clothing shop. Thanks to her innovative fashion themes, she became one of the most popular fashion designers in Paris. She replaced the corsets of the time with short skirts and casual dresses. She also expanded her business in high fashion to include jewelry, perfume, and cosmetics. Until this day, the Chanel label remains among the most recognized of all brand names.