Chanel is a French given name derived from the French place name Channel, meaning "the channel." It was initially used as a unisex name but has become more commonly associated with females in recent times. The name Chanel gained significant popularity and recognition in the mid-20th century due to its association with the renowned French fashion designer Coco Chanel. The designer's influence on women's fashion, particularly with her timeless "little black dress" and Chanel suit, has helped to solidify this name as a stylish choice for parents.
"Chanel experienced periods of popularity with peaks in the late 1920s and mid-1980s."