Étienne Balsan

Although her singing career failed to take off, it introduced her to wealthy and influential men who would help change her fortunes.

In Moulins, Chanel met Etienne Balsan, a wealthy former cavalry officer and textile heir.

Through him, she entered a world of privilege that had previously been far beyond her reach.

In 1908, she began a relationship with one of Boncin's friends, the English businessman Arthur Capple, nicknamed Boy.