Boy Capel

Arthur Edward "Boy" Capel (1881 – 1919) was an English polo player, businessman, and socialite, best known for being a lover and important influence on the fashion designer Coco Chanel.

Capel was born in England. He made his fortune in coal and shipping. He met Coco Chanel around 1909 and began a relationship with her. He financially supported her early fashion ventures, funding her first shops in Deauville and Paris. He recognized her talent and encouraged her career.

Capel's influence on Chanel's style is considered significant. His tailored wardrobe likely inspired many of her designs, including the adoption of jersey fabric, which was traditionally used for men's underwear. He also introduced her to the concept of simplicity and functionality in clothing.

Capel married Diana Wyndham, Lady Ribblesdale, in 1918. He died in a car accident near Fréjus, France, in December 1919. Chanel was deeply affected by his death, which many historians and biographers consider a profound loss that influenced her future work and life. While married to Lady Ribblesdale at the time of his death, his relationship with Chanel continued until his demise.