Karl Lagerfeld took the magical streets of Paris to the Grand Palais for the Chanel FW18 haute couture collection.
The inspiration was drawn from the sights and sounds of the French capital with the setting including a promenade by the Seine that lead past the green open-air book stalls filled with Coco Chanel books, including replicas of those found in her personal library, magazines and posters. Seems like designers are continuing to pay tribute to the founders and the codes of their houses this week.
Rockabilly retro, Lagerfeld focused on the skirt, more precisely the different variations of it. We saw wool ankle grazing pencil skirts with side splits up to above the knee, pleated options in neutral tones of grey and navy, tweed mini’s that had a wider fit with an illusion of a shorter skirt underneath. The classic tweed gave way to satin, sheer embellished fabrics, chiffon tiers, and voluminous peplum detail – there really are multiple ways to wear this classic garment.
There was plenty of decadence, but it all had a youthful feel with rich velvet fabrics being turned into mini dresses and styled with boots and a matching long coat. Ankle boots proved to be another hero item from the collection with all having a fold over effect at the top revealing either matching smooth leather or a panel of embroidery, or even fringing.
The richness designer blended with contemporary wearability is something Lagerfeld does well, after all Coco was always seen ahead of the fashion curve so it’s no surprise that the Maison continues to offer the classics, but always with a fresh twist. A turquoise bridal look closed the show as the German designer appeared for his bow alongside his godson to close another dream-like escape into the world of Chanel.
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