History's Best Selling Fashion of 1955

Make way for the hits of 1955! This remarkable era stood as a testament to the rock-and-roll & jukebox era and the march of first-rate fashion. Crowd-pleasers such as Chanel 2.55 shared the spotlight with mega-bestsellers A-line and essential classics. Brought to you by top-notch makers from industry leaders like Chanel and Christian Dior, these trailblazing products became sensational mainstays in post-war American homes and earned a permanent place in cultural lore. Check out the complete rank-ordered ledger below to relive the finest releases of the year.

1. Chanel 2.55

   Released in 1955 by Chanel, Coco Chanel

   Launched in February 1955, the Chanel 2.55 handbag wasn't just another accessory; it was a revolution in women's fashion, conceived by Gabrielle "Coco" Chanel herself. Prior to its introduction, fashionable handbags were predominantly clutch styles, forcing women to constantly hold them. The 2.55 elegantly solved this practical dilemma with its innovative shoulder chain strap, freeing women's hands for the first time in a high-fashion context. This blend of unparalleled practicality with sophisticated design immediately struck a chord, making it an instant cultural and commercial success. It quickly became the must-have item for women seeking both convenience and an undeniable statement of luxury and liberation, cementing its place as an iconic piece in fashion history.

2. A-line (clothing)

   Released in 1955 by Christian Dior, Christian Dior

   The A-line silhouette made its iconic debut with Christian Dior's Spring 1955 collection, immediately capturing the attention of the fashion world and launching a new era of elegance and freedom in women's clothing. This innovative design, which gently flared from the shoulders or waist, offered a refreshing departure from the constricting styles of earlier decades. Its instant success was rooted in its ability to combine sophisticated lines with unparalleled comfort and a universally flattering fit, quickly establishing itself as a commercial triumph and a cultural phenomenon that would redefine femininity for generations to come, becoming an enduring classic.