Chloé

Chloé, founded in 1952 by the chic French aristocrat Gaby Aghion, is the high fashion brand that decided to redefine "casual elegance" for the post-war elite. Known for its ethereal boho-chic aesthetic and a heavy dose of French whimsy, Chloé has been a staple in the wardrobes of starlets and socialites. Its defining moments include the iconic "Paddington" bag that became a must-have in the early 2000s and a slew of runway shows where models floated down the catwalk in dreamy layers of chiffon and lace. With a valuation comfortably nestled in the billions, the brand has accumulated awards aplenty but not without its share of scandalous missteps—like the 2017 debacle when a controversial ad campaign seemed to promote a rather thinly veiled political statement. Top executives like Clare Waight Keller, who stirred the pot with her departure to Givenchy, have left their mark by pushing Chloé into the limelight and, in some cases, controversies. While it continues to charm with its quintessentially Parisian flair, Chloé remains a reminder that even the most refined brands have their moments of haute drama and glitzy infamy.