"I knew we couldn't organise a big show, that we would have to invent something else, so I came up with the idea of a small cortege that would come down the stairs of the Grand Palais and pass beneath arches of flowers. Like a family celebration, a wedding…” Virginie Viard says on creating the wedding-like dreamscape for the Chanel Spring-Summer 2021 Haute Couture collection.
A coterie of models glide down the stairs of the Grand Palais, tumbling amid swaths of tulle and embroidered tweed. There is a signature Chanel warmth to the atmosphere - even if through the screen - a whimsical sense of composure radiates off models as they move into an arial CC formation, chatting and giggling amongst themselves with concrete and rose petals underfoot, floral archways overhead. An air of gathering imbues the spirit of the show. Coming together after an arduous period, a celebration amid what has been lacking joy for so many months.
If I am to be wed, let it mimic this utopian fantasy. Guests clad in purposeful tweed suits and androgynous waistcoats along to a garage soundtrack. Part rave, part whimsical celebration, Chanel Haute Couture captures what we've all been missing from a cerebral standpoint.
With midriffs exposed, diamond encrusted belly-chains and tulle en masse, the classic Chanel woman is embodied in the modern day under Viard's reign - a paired back interpretation that nods to Coco Chanel herself. Of course, a wedding is nothing without a bride, and Viard's bride looks as though she's been transported from a chapel in 1920 onto the stage Marion Cotillard, Penelope Cruz, and Vanessa Paradis are observing. With a trailing veil and ecru satin crêpe gown embroidered with strass and pearl butterflies by Maison Lesage, she is helped off a white horse in true fantasy fashion.
Below, witness Chanel Spring-Summer 2021 Haute Couture collection, clad with flamenco-like trains and pastel ensembles restrained by monochromatic looks. Elements of menswear are dressed up with spring-wedding sunglasses as the show takes on a lightness and intimacy achieved by the format of the presentation. "I love big family reunions, when the generations all come together. It's so warm. There’s this spirit at Chanel today. Because Chanel is also like a family." Viard says.
