Chanel, the renowned luxury fashion brand, has recently announced a groundbreaking decision regarding its prestigious Métiers d’art show. This highly anticipated event, showcasing the brand’s exceptional craftsmanship and artistry, will take place in Florence, Italy on June 7, 2022. This marks a significant departure from tradition as it will be the first time Chanel’s current creative director, Virginie Viard, unveils a Métiers d’art collection outside of France.
The exact location of the show in Florence has not yet been disclosed, adding an air of anticipation to the event. This strategic move by Chanel reflects the brand’s recognition of the deep connection between Florence’s artistic heritage and the cultural importance of its craftmanship. Florence is renowned for its ancestral know-how, which continues to thrive even today.
For the past years, Chanel has presented its Métiers d’art collection in December. However, this decision to hold a repeat show in June signals a desire to make a significant impact and showcase the collection in a new light. The Métiers d’art concept, pioneered by Karl Lagerfeld, unites luxury ready-to-wear with elements of couture, creating a unique and exceptional blend of styles.
In the previous year, the 2021/22 Métiers d’art collection was unveiled at 19M, a Parisian building specially designed by Chanel to house the fashion couture métiers and crafts. This consolidated approach towards gathering various entities under one roof highlights the brand’s commitment to preserving and celebrating the artistry behind its creations. These entities, which encompass a range of crafts such as embroidery, featherwork, and leatherwork, are grouped together under the holding company Paraffection.
Chanel’s connection to Italy spans beyond the choice of location for its upcoming show. Founder Gabrielle Chanel forged strong ties with the country, leading to the acquisition of Italian manufactures that have seamlessly integrated into the circle of fashion crafts. Shoemakers, leatherworkers, tanneries, and yarn manufacturers from Italy provide their expertise to Chanel’s creations, further enriching the brand’s legacy of excellence. In recent years, Chanel has acquired majority stakes in various Italian businesses, including Paima, a high-end knitwear company, Ballin, a footwear manufacturer, and Conceria Gaiera Giovanni, a tannery, amongst others.
The Métiers d’art show in Florence not only serves as a tribute to the exceptional artisanal heritage of the city but also strengthens Chanel’s ties with Italy. This choice reflects Chanel’s enduring commitment to showcasing and celebrating the outstanding craftsmanship of the Métiers d’art, as well as its dedication to influencing and shaping the fashion industry on a global scale. As the brand continues to push boundaries and explore new territories, Chanel remains an unrivaled symbol of luxury, prowess, and innovation in the world of fashion.
Useful links:
1. Vogue: Chanel Métiers d’art Collection
2. Chanel Fall/Winter 2022-23 Ready-to-Wear Collection
