Necklace
Brand
Chanel
(French, founded 1914)
Fall 1991
Metal
Gift of Depuis 1924
Object number2013.56.1
This bold necklace was a key accessory in Karl Lagerfeld’s 1991 “hip hop” collection for Chanel. Lagerfeld was inspired by artists such as Run-DMC and Salt-N-Pepa. These artists wore the gold “dookie” chain as a symbol of power – ostentatious luxury and success in the face of Reagan-era racial conservatism. However, here it has become a branding device for high fashion. Since its debut, the Chanel hip hop collection has become controversial for its appropriation of black culture.
Descriptiongold plated thick metal chain link Chanel logo plate necklaceCollections
Exhibitions