For the first instalment of my series of articles highlighting the handbags of the House of CHANEL, I thought it would be quite fitting to feature the newly debuted CHANEL Gabrielle handbag. First shown at the Spring/Summer 2016/2017 Pret-à-Porter show during the Paris shows a few months ago, the bag was a standout from its first appearance on the runway. The Data Center CHANEL presentation was a playful mix of the contemporary and the classic making it the perfect setting to have first showcase this new style. With the style’s second appearance at the recent Métier d’Art show, it has proven itself to be a versatile and elegant new addition to the world of CHANEL handbags.
For more than 30 years, Monsieur Lagerfeld has helmed the venerable House of CHANEL. During this time he has masterfully woven together his own impeccable aesthetic with that of Mademoiselle Chanel’s enduring vision. This expert weaving of heritage and modernity is never more apparent than in the CHANEL Gabrielle handbag. The bag was inspired by both virtual reality glasses of the 21st century and the binocular cases Mademoiselle Chanel saw gentlemen carry at the racecourse. Fitted on a stiff thermoformed base, the body of this newly launched style is light and supple, allowing for the wearer to easily find her belongings stowed within. In keeping with Mademoiselle Chanel’s belief that women should not just be beautifully dressed but comfortable as well, the strap of the bag is incredibly versatile. It is meant to move with the wearer’s body and never impede. Done in either gold of silver, this innovative new strap can be worn three distinct ways. From the traditional over the shoulder and cross body, to both at the same time with the chain going over one shoulder and and then diagonally across the other, the strap adapts to each individual’s style and mood.
With a quilted body and smooth base, the CHANEL Gabrielle handbag is done in both leather and python. The color palette ranges from the traditional black, white, beige, and navy of the house to rich shades of red and blue and vibrant tones of pink, aqua, and yellow. For a subtle yet important nod to the original bags that Mademoiselle herself created, the lining is done in a sumptuous garnet hued cloth. This slouchy yet elegant bag comes in three iterations: the shoulder bag, a large shopper, and a backpack.
With the CHANEL Gabrielle bag officially launching in March, Monsieur Lagerfeld has recently announced that four famed faces will be representing the style in an upcoming campaign to be shot by Lagerfeld himself. Kristen Stuart, Pharrell Williams, Cara Delevingne, and Caroline de Meigret will be featured in the advertising campaigned slated to be released in April.
Photography: CHANEL
