Manege free, it was said at the haute couture show of the prestige label Chanel. Designer Virginie Viard presented her modern, mystical version of a fashion circus between wooden horses, fish and camels. With bow ties, tight-fitting waistcoats, tailcoat-like dresses and top hats, the models, alluding to the Trojan horse, climbed out of the wooden figures and moved through the otherwise heavily reduced backdrop – unusual for the brand, which is known for its elaborate set design.
Among the illustrious guests were the editor-in-chief of American Vogue, Anna Wintour, the actresses Tilda Swinton and Sadie Sink, and Vanessa Paradis, Roger and Mirka Federer also sat in the front row for the fashion show.
Mystical glamour
Viard’s sophisticated designs radiated royal flair, refined with incorporated, glittering threads and deliberately set sequined details, and combined classic Chanel cuts with new interpretations of French chic. The trend towards shimmering fabrics that reflect the light and exude a touch of glam is firmly established in the label’s collection.
The designer combined layered ruffles, bell sleeves, puff sleeves and peplums with floral patterns and transformed classic Chanel suits into robes with a twist using flowing, transparent fabrics – a change between timeless elegance and mystical femininity. Not only suits and dresses, but also floral jumpsuits made it onto the catwalk and created a connection between the noble claim of haute couture and relaxed suitability for everyday use.
The highlight of every haute couture show: the wedding dress. Viard interpreted the term bridal couture in her own way – with a short wedding dress made of transparent fabric embroidered with birds and matching, oversized veil.
