“Women have always been the strong ones of the world. The men are always seeking from women a little pillow to put their heads down on. They are always longing for the mother who held them as infants.”
- August 19, 1883 – January 10, 1971
- Born in France
- Designer, businesswoman
- Founded the Chanel brand and advocated modern and simple fashion, especially popularizing the “Chanel suit” and “little black dress,” and contributing to the liberation of women.
Quote
“Women have always been the strong ones of the world. The men are always seeking from women a little pillow to put their heads down on. They are always longing for the mother who held them as infants.”
Explanation
In this quote, Coco Chanel reflects on the traditional roles and perceptions of gender and strength. She suggests that women, often seen as the nurturers and caretakers in society, are the true pillars of strength, while men, despite their outward show of power or dominance, often seek comfort and emotional security from women. Chanel compares this to the maternal bond, where men are subconsciously seeking the comfort, protection, and unconditional love that they experienced as infants in their mothers’ arms. She hints at the emotional vulnerability that exists beneath the surface of societal expectations, especially for men, who, in their quest for success or independence, may still desire the comforting presence of the maternal figure.
Chanel’s own life is a testament to this idea of female strength. Despite the challenges she faced, from an impoverished upbringing to the turbulent relationships she had with men, she built an empire based on her own independence, vision, and resilience. She did not seek validation through others, particularly men, but instead became a symbol of empowered womanhood. Chanel’s success in a male-dominated industry is a reflection of her belief in the innate strength of women, and her designs were meant to empower women to stand on their own two feet, independent and self-sufficient, rather than relying on others for emotional or financial support.
In today’s world, this quote speaks to ongoing discussions about gender dynamics and the ways in which men and women interact emotionally and socially. While men have made great strides in expressing vulnerability and seeking emotional connections, the quote serves as a reminder of the emotional labor that often falls on women. In many societies, women are still expected to be the emotional caregivers, holding space for others, while their own emotional needs are sometimes overlooked or undervalued. Chanel’s words call attention to the strength that women exhibit in their roles as both nurturers and independent individuals, advocating for a more balanced understanding of gendered strength—one where both men and women can equally embrace vulnerability while celebrating their respective forms of resilience.
