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When it comes to women's suits, very few designer names have the widespread allure and appeal of Chanel.  The typical $5,000 price tag of the Chanel suit ensures that one of these creations remains sought after as much for the implied high-status that it bestows on its owner as for the suit itself.  Over the years, the Chanel suit has become legendary and is practically a must-have in any upscale career woman's wardrobe.  Let's take a look at what makes the Chanel suit so special.

First of all, you may have noticed that I refer to this particular item of clothing as "the Chanel suit" rather than "a Chanel suit" or "Chanel suits".  That's because the Chanel suit has a particular look to it that almost anyone who has paid any attention to high fashion can immediately recognize.  The suit is generally described as being boxy (as opposed to either form-fitted or flowing) and is marked by its distinctive braided trim on the jacket.  In addition, the buttons of the suit are made to look like coins, and they boast the interlocking "C" logo that has become the company's signature.  Surely at some point in time, you have seen someone wearing a pink Chanel suit trimmed in black.  That is a look that has classic Chanel written all over it.  

It is not uncommon to see women top off the Chanel suit with a string of gorgeous pearls, or to wear a huge flower on the breast or lapel of the jacket.  Another seemingly required accessory for the Chanel suit is the 2.55 handbag, which is also a signature piece from this fashion powerhouse.  

The Chanel suit is based on the futuristic vision of founder Coco Chanel.  Coco's designs were always considered to be well ahead of her time.  For example, when she opened her first store in Paris way back in 1910, her first creations placed a great deal of emphasis on comfort and ease of movement -- which was practically unheard of in that age of tight corsets.  Women enjoyed the new-found freedom that they felt while wearing the Chanel label, so Coco's shop was a big hit right off the bat.

I have never owned a Chanel suit myself, but I have several friends in the corporate world who have treated themselves to this luxury.  The overwhelming consensus is that they love the way they feel when they wear Chanel.  It's not that the material, quality, or design is that much different from, say, an Armani or a Gucci suit.  It's just that they get caught up in the mystique and the legend surrounding the Chanel name.  From what I see whenever I walk into a downtown law office or similar environment, my friends are not alone in this sentiment.

So if there's ever a time when you really want to splurge on yourself and give your wardrobe an incredible boost, consider purchasing the Chanel suit.  You'll look and feel great at work or at social events, and perhaps a bit of that legendary mystique will rub off on you!