Chanel’s latest collection for Spring-Summer 2024 pays homage to the timeless elegance and carefree spirit of French style. Drawing inspiration from the iconic Villa de Noailles in Hyères, a historic hub of creativity in the 1920s, the collection transports us to the sun-soaked days of Provence, where leisurely lunches at beach bars and shopping in St Tropez are the norm.
In the lead-up to the show, the invitation, captured by renowned photographers Inez & Vinoodh, features Dutch model Rianne Van Rompaey posing in front of one of the villa’s picturesque cut-out windows, overlooking the sparkling Mediterranean Sea. This same breathtaking view, adorned with blown-up flowers and petals, sets the stage for the show held at the Grand Palais Ephemère.
On the runway, Chanel presents a range of effortlessly chic looks. Posh-hippie plissé dresses and blouses are paired with classic plaid blazers, creating a harmonious blend of sophistication and laid-back style. The collection also features super light bouclé caftans, perfect for easy layering and versatile in any setting. Clever culottes and shorts make a statement when worn with crystal-embroidered tops or canoeist tanks adorned with the iconic double CC logos. A notable departure for Chanel is the inclusion of aged denim jeans and tunics, adding a touch of modernity to the collection. These denim pieces are expertly paired with pearly belts, creating a unique juxtaposition of casual and polished.
Virginie Viard, Chanel’s creative director, showcases her bold creativity by incorporating asymmetry into the collection. Unevenly wrapped bouclé skirts with one side hanging three inches lower than the other add an unexpected twist to classic silhouettes, enhancing the overall allure.
The footwear of choice for this collection is flats, embracing the notion of effortless elegance. Models strut down the runway in diamante slippers, logo flip flops, and pearl-encrusted shoes with black ribbon bows, exuding a sense of comfort without compromising on style. For eveningwear, Viard taps into the semi-sheer trend, presenting a series of black chiffon negligée dresses paired with high-heeled knee boots in a captivating artic blue shade. The varied lengths of the dresses, ranging from mid-thigh to just above the knee, cater to different preferences while maintaining an air of sophistication.
As the show progresses, a psychedelic shift takes place, showcasing mad fantasy florals in pant suits, blazers, and plissé skirts. This whimsical nod to the insouciance of Villa de Noailles during its heyday, attracting creative luminaries like Jean Cocteau, Salvador Dali, Piet Mondrian, and Giacometti, adds an element of playfulness to the collection.
Virginie Viard emphasizes the allure and magic of the villa, stating, “What I like about the villa is that it is not a huge monument, but an intimate place, where you sense a certain magic.” Her unique vision and attention to detail earned praises from industry insiders, such as Penelope Cruz, Usher, Nicky, and Paris Hilton, during the collection’s unveiling on the final day of Paris Fashion Week.
While Coco Chanel’s connection to Marie-Laure de Noailles remains shrouded in mystery, the Villa de Noailles now serves as a contemporary art center and hosts the famed Hyères Festival. Known as one of the most prestigious awards in European fashion, the festival proudly counts Chanel as one of its major sponsors, further solidifying the brand’s commitment to supporting emerging talent and promoting creativity.
In summary, Chanel’s latest collection is a celebration of joy, ease, and a carefree attitude towards life. It captures the essence of effortless French chic, showcasing the brand’s ability to stay relevant while appealing to a younger target market. From the beach to a café, the collection effortlessly carries you through every moment with a sense of style and unfettered elegance.
Useful links:
1. Chanel Official Website
2. Villa de Noailles Official Website
