Chanel Fall/Winter 2013

The statement behind a Chanel collection is always mirrored in the brand’s epic sets and this season the Grand Palais was filled with an oversized globe marked with the locations of Chanel flagships worldwide. Considering that 2013 marks the 100th anniversary of Coco Chanel’s first boutique, the scale model charting the brand’s world domination feels celebratory and the luxurious yet streetwise fall collection helmed by Lagerfeld certainly provides cause for gaiety. Focusing on what Lagerfeld called “a global look” the show featured a seemingly endless array of pieces imbued with Chanel trademarks, yet connected to youth culture.

Considering that Chanel is synonymous with French chic the move towards a style that resonates internationally is a bold one. Rather than rest on the brand’s laurels, this collection finds its strength in the kind of ideas that look modern and relevant no matter the timezone. The charcoal and black tweed opening number on Ashleigh Good, would work just as well on the Marais as it would in Shanghai. Thigh high boots embellished with chains and paired with layers of textured black are irresistible in any situation. Ruffled mini-skirts, one of the season’s key motifs found a place on Lagerfeld’s runway, as did a variety of winter ready quilted pieces, which looked fresh in the short, a-line silhouette that dominated the collection.

Of course it wouldn’t be a Chanel show without a few jaw-dropping statement pieces. The aforementioned over the knee boots seem destined to make the editorial rounds, especially in the glossy patent variation and the transparent and keyhole dresses designed to show them off made an incredible visual statement. There was a sensuality showcased on Lagerfeld’s runway today that hasn’t been seen at Chanel in a long while; the subtly come-hither gowns on Soo Joo Park and Stella Tennant were laced with ladylike eroticism that was thrilling. After all, if there is one thing that is appreciated globally it’s a little sexiness.

Text: Janelle Okwodu
Photos: Stephan Moskovic