Chanel, the renowned luxury fashion house, has recently entered into a formal partnership with The Prince’s Foundation in order to enhance its international training program in the field of embroidery. This collaboration aims to further elevate the standard of excellence in embroidery and provide aspiring artisans with unparalleled learning opportunities.
As part of its commitment to promoting the art of embroidery, Chanel has established a new program at Highgrove in Gloucestershire, a region in the southwest of the United Kingdom. This program, which commenced earlier this year, offers 24-week learning sessions dedicated to embroidery. Six talented students, carefully selected and awarded scholarships, have the privilege of participating in this intensive program.
The location of the program, on the grounds of Highgrove, is significant as it is situated within the multidisciplinary training center launched by Prince Charles. The aim is to create an environment where the art of embroidery can flourish and receive the recognition it deserves. Students enrolled in the program benefit from a comprehensive curriculum that includes practical training, as well as lectures, presentations, and critiques. These sessions are guided by experts from Lesage, Montex, and Lemarié, all of which are members of Paraffection, a subsidiary of Chanel that brings together various companies specializing in artisan crafts.
While the majority of the program takes place at Highgrove, some classes will also be held in Paris at 19M, a creative hub that houses the activities of Paraffection. This provides students with the opportunity to experience the vibrant atmosphere of the fashion capital and further enrich their understanding of the craft. Recently, 19M hosted an exhibition showcasing embroidery and weaving crafts as part of its Autumn-Winter 2022-2023 Gallery programming. This event included exhibitions, encounters, initiation workshops, and collaborative weaving experiences, allowing participants to immerse themselves in the world of embroidery.
This collaboration between Chanel and The Prince’s Foundation is not the first time the foundation has shown its support for young fashion talents. In late 2020, The Prince’s Foundation assisted in the creation of a collaborative capsule collection for Yoox-Net À Porter. The initiative, known as The Modern Artisan, involved six students from the Politecnico di Milano design school leading the design process using artificial intelligence. The designs were then meticulously handmade by four young British designers at The Prince’s Foundation headquarters in Scotland, showcasing the harmony between innovation and traditional craftsmanship.
Overall, the partnership between Chanel and The Prince’s Foundation signifies a shared commitment to preserving and promoting the art of embroidery. By providing aspiring artisans with access to a comprehensive training program, this collaboration aims to nurture the next generation of talented embroiderers and ensure the longevity of this exquisite craft.
Useful links:
1. Chanel Official Website
2. The Prince’s Foundation Official Website
