While the international fashion weeks might be a not so distant memory having come to an end in March, I would be utterly remiss in not sharing these exclusive images from the CHANEL Fall/Winter 2016/2017 collection with you. Staged at the Grand Palais, the runway and its environs were reminiscent of the famed 31 rue Cambon salon of the house. It was here that Mademoiselle Chanel would host intimate presentations to introduce her latest collections to loyal clients and adoring press. Perched atop delicate gold chairs, the attendees were granted an up-close view of the pieces being shown for the upcoming season. For the Fall/Winter 2016/2017 season, this was just what Monsieur Lagerfeld did declaring “…this season everybody was front row.” Again, masterfully weaving the heritage of the famed house of CHANEL with his contemporary vision, Lagerfeld not only created a totally captivating setting, but also a exquisite collection.
The CHANEL Fall/Winter 2016/2017 collection was truly a celebration of the house of CHANEL and the fundamental design elements that can be seen throughout its history. Monsieur Lagerfeld showed ladylike mid-length and longer hem-lines, equestrian inspired boots and hats, menswear inspired silhouettes, beautifully crafted costume jewelry, impeccable little black dresses, and some of the most divine evening-wear he’s created to date. The iconic CHANEL tweed so beloved of the house and its devotees was shown in elegant black and grey as well as a delightfully bold palette of pinks, reds, and fuchsias. These pieces were lined in gold, silver, or bronze lamés honoring Mademoiselle Chanel’s belief that everything should be as beautiful on the inside as they were on the outside. For the famed CHANEL jacket, it was re-imaged as a bolero and playfully worked with the addition of a jersey hood and sleeves or in a mix of denim and woven tweed with dramatic chiffon cuffs.
As for evening, the collection and Lagerfeld’s vision continued to shine with a downright dreamy selection of gowns done in the most delicate of chiffons. Lace and frayed tulle ruffles also feature on these elegant pieces that will undoubtably be worn on the red-carpet by the luckiest of CHANEL muses and at some of the world’s most exclusive soirees and galas. The house’s famed little black dress was shown embellished with flat pleats down the back and bows, perfectly updating this classic garment.
Again, Monsieur Lagerfeld has created a truly spectacular collection that beautifully blends the storied history of the house of CHANEL and Mademoiselle Chanel’s enduring vision with his own take on the contemporary. As with each season, I personally fall more and more in love with all things CHANEL. From the house’s enduring yet evolving style to their dedication to preserving and honoring craftsmanship that is rarely seen in the fashion world now, the house of CHANEL is truly one of the greats.
I’ll be continuing my ever lengthening love letter to all things CHANEL on Friday with a post solely dedicated to the stunning accessories of the CHANEL Fall/Winter 2016/2017 collection with even more amazing exclusive images.
Photos via CHANEL
