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Paris Fashion Week SS2025: Chanel celebrate elegance and freedom in honour of Gabrielle's legacy

Author: Phuriwat Hirunrangsee | Photographer: Courtesy of CHANEL and Press

Oct 04, 2024

"...CHANEL made a stunning return to the Grand Palais during Paris Fashion Week with its Spring/Summer 2025 ready-to-wear collection. The atmosphere was nothing short of enchanting, as warm sunlight filtered through the majestic arched ceilings, illuminating a collection that radiated both freedom and elegance. After a four-year hiatus due to the Grand Palais restoration, CHANEL celebrated its comeback with a collection that reimagines and pays tribute to the extraordinary legacy of Gabrielle Chanel, showcasing her timeless vision in a vibrant new light...."

"This collection is a tribute to women who liberated themselves from the burdensome gaze of society, much like Gabrielle Chanel," the brand remarked. "This flight is dedicated to them." The design team embarked on a sartorial journey through time, resonating deeply with this remarkable homage to strong femininity. Echoing the fashion-defining movements of the 1920s, including the bold Garçonne style and the pioneering female aviators of the era, the collection features aviator jackets, uniform-inspired dresses, and suits adorned with whimsical tie-shaped inserts, all exuding a sense of lightness and opulence.

A dramatic giant white birdcage anchored the runway, serving as a striking symbol of freedom and self-expression that perfectly encapsulated the collection's ethos. This extraordinary offering, while appearing classically simple, was irresistibly eye-catching and wearable, intertwining distinctive materials, enchanting hues, and silhouettes that empowered women to soar.

The A-line skirts featured daring slits, opulently embroidered feathers, and a chic aviator jacket with a whimsical Peter Pan collar, all creating a sense of adventurous elegance. Among the standout pieces, a classic tweed jacket sparkled with radiant sequins and playful fringe, while another ensemble was gracefully adorned with a fine feather collar and cuffs. A striking black jacket and a captivating dress prominently showcased feathers, illustrating a luxurious exploration of materials and highlighting CHANEL's continued innovation while honouring its rich heritage.

Riley Keough's mesmerising vocals and dramatic black chiffon cape. She glided through the air on a ceiling swing, while beautiful models walked down the runway.

This stunning collection from the CHANEL design team arrives as we eagerly await the announcement of a new creative director following Virginie Viard's departure last March. It embodies the essence and allure of the brand, transporting us back to its roots while instilling an everlasting sense of sophistication. The brand’s devoted followers, particularly the old-money elite, are sure to appreciate this homage to CHANEL's heritage. However, the question lingers: does it genuinely resonate with Generation Z clients, who seek a deeper connection and relevance in today’s fashion landscape?

Also See: Paris Fashion Week 2024: A masterful representation of soft power and French identity by Louis Vuitton

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