When it comes to Chanel, the iconic French fashion house, there are many collectors around the world who covet its timeless creations, from the classic flap bags to the tweed jackets. However, pinpointing the biggest collector of Chanel is not an easy task, as the brand’s allure transcends demographics, geographies, and eras. Nevertheless, some names stand out in the Chanel collecting community, both for their passion for the brand and their impressive holdings. In this blog, we will introduce you to some of the most notable Chanel collectors and their stories.

One of the most prominent Chanel collectors is Barbara Cirkva, a former executive at Chanel and current fashion consultant. Cirkva has been collecting Chanel for over four decades, starting with a classic flap bag in 1978. Since then, she has amassed a collection of over 300 pieces, including rare Chanel jewelry, haute couture gowns, and special editions. Cirkva’s love for Chanel goes beyond the aesthetics; she considers it an investment in history and craftsmanship. As she told Vogue, “Chanel pieces are not just fashion, they are art.” Cirkva’s Chanel collection is estimated to be worth millions of dollars and is often lent to museums and exhibitions.

Another notable Chanel collector is Diane Charrière, a Swiss entrepreneur and philanthropist. Charrière has been collecting Chanel for more than twenty years, driven by her admiration for Coco Chanel’s vision and personality. Her collection comprises over 350 pieces, ranging from vintage Chanel suits to limited-edition handbags. Charrière’s most prized possession is a Chanel bracelet that belonged to the designer herself, which she acquired at an auction in 2011 for over $200,000. Charrière’s Chanel collection is not only a personal passion but also a source of inspiration for her charity work, as she donates part of the proceeds from her Chanel sales to fund education projects in Senegal.

A third Chanel collector who deserves attention is Kathleen McDermott, an American psychologist and executive coach. McDermott started collecting Chanel in the 1990s, after discovering a Chanel boutique in New York City and falling in love with the brand’s elegance. Her collection now consists of over 200 pieces, including vintage and modern Chanel clothing, handbags, and jewelry. McDermott’s unique approach to Chanel collecting is to wear her pieces regularly, not as display items but as part of her personal style. As she told The New York Times, “Chanel is not something you keep in a safe or a closet. It’s meant to be worn and enjoyed.” McDermott’s Chanel collection reflects her sophisticated taste and her appreciation for the brand’s enduring appeal.

While these three women are among the most notable Chanel collectors, they are by no means the only ones. Chanel has a global community of admirers and collectors who share their passion for the brand and its legacy. Whether they prefer classic Chanel or modern Chanel, vintage Chanel or limited-edition Chanel, all Chanel collectors have one thing in common: the love for the unmistakable black-and-white logo that represents style, luxury, and innovation. If you are a Chanel collector yourself, we would love to hear your story!