We’re still in the midst of a global pandemic despite the ease of restrictions and a sense back to “normalcy”. The fashion industry continues to suffer though, as several maisons and fashion events have either cancelled scheduled shows or took this opportunity to implement completely new strategies (Saint Laurent included).
However, at Chanel, the maison believed the show must go on and it certainly did. The Cruise ’21 show was originally scheduled for Capri last month but due to obvious reasons, had to be cancelled. Instead, Chanel turned to technology for the big reveal.
For Cruise ’21, Virginie Viard crafted what we believe is some of her best work yet. Titled ‘Balade en Méditerranée’ (meaning ‘A trip around the Mediterranean’), everyone had a front row ticket to the show as 51 looks were revealed online.
“Initially I had Capri in mind, where the show was supposed to take place, but didn’t happen in the end because of lockdown,” says Virginie Viard.
“So we had to adapt: not only did we decide to use fabrics that we already had, but the collection, more generally, evolved towards a trip around the Mediterranean… The islands, the scent of the eucalyptus, the pink shades of the bougainvillea.”
Offering “a wardrobe that can be carried in a little suitcase on wheels, a shopper and an embroidered handbag”, the Cruise ’21 collection consisted of easy-to-wear, functional pieces that will take you from day to night.
Embedded with a laid-back allure that Viard brilliantly conveyed through strapless dresses, crêpe shorts, lightweight jackets, matching suits, embroidered bandeau tops and jeans, the collection was inspired by the legendary actresses of the 1960s and their holidays at the Italian and the French Riviera.
Chanel’s coveted yet playful aesthetic was still visible as Viard played with rich embroidery, transparent lamé, crêpe, leather and tweed.
Discover more on Chanel.com.
Now, find out when the digital edition of Paris Couture Week will take place.
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