Fashion

FASHION – FROM THE RUNWAY

Review – Chanel – Fall / Winter 2010 Couture

Photos from flickr.com

Coincidentally I was right near-by when the Chanel Fall / Winter 2010 Haute Couture show began in Paris last week on the 6th of July at The Grand Palais. Unfortunately my invitation was somehow lost in the mail; however, as always Karl Lagerfeld’s genius and extravagance made for a powerful, courageous and breathtaking collection of looks not to be missed.

The stage was set with a grand golden lion (Coco Chanel’s star sign was Leo) which stood 45 feet above the audience. Its paw was perched on a large cream pearl – from which the models boldly emerged.

This season there was a darker mood in the air. The colours included rich maroon, loden, navy, white, eggplant, khaki, bronze, taupe, beige and black of course – giving the collection a distinctly autumn feel. There was velvet trims on plaid fabrics, crystal trims on camel, fur trims on tweed. One dress had a million sequins delicately hand-embroidered. There was stunning beading, piped pearls, gold detailing and sequined embroidery. The lion also made a playful appearance with embroidery.

As with all Chanel shows the couture grew more elaborate with each passing look. There were interesting proportions throughout the show. Gorgeous Chanel cropped jackets with elbow length sleeves, over full length blouses. High waist skirts and dresses were worn longer to just below the knee and mid-calf. Grown-up double breasted jackets and suits began the show before making way for gorgeous floral dresses. Tiny alpine flowers were made of bugle beads with the patterns inspired by German porcelain of the eighteenth century.

The models’ barely brushed hair and fresh make-up created a youthful accompaniment to the couture.

The collection had a whimsical youthful edge. A fitting conclusion to the show – model Baptiste came onto the runway wearing a lion mask and accompanying a bride dressed in white.

Chanel is the crème de la crème of haute couture and this collection did not disappoint. It felt almost regal yet completely modern and most importantly impeccably chic and desirable! Tonight I will be dreaming of Chanel x

Photos from Style.it.com

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