Chanel recently held a dazzling fashion show at the renowned nightclub Castel in Paris, drawing inspiration from the club’s opulent and mysterious ambiance. The venue was adorned with faux antiques, luxurious red and gold velvet furnishings, and vibrant Keith Haring murals. Castel has long been a beloved late-night destination for the French elite, including Johnny Hallyday, Brigitte Bardot, Serge Gainsbourg, as well as international A-listers like Mick Jagger and Aristotle Onassis.
The collection itself showcased a surprising twist, deviating from the traditional high society aesthetic of Saint-Germain and embracing a more après-ski cocktail party vibe. The show opened with models flaunting black chenille and tweed coats paired with mini-skirts, adorned with shaggy moon boots and layers of necklaces. As they descended the staircase into the party, they revealed matelassé ski jumpsuits, red corduroy dungarees, and chic parkas in patent sheepskin or black quilting. The designs clearly showcased Creative Director Virginie Viard’s vision of a winter filled with inclement weather, featuring Nordic sweaters and crystal-embellished wool beanies.
The models exuded a sensual energy as they navigated the narrow corridors of the club, shedding layers of clothing for the dance floor. The collection incorporated metallic cocktails, faux-fur-trimmed jackets, and black faux-fur ski boots reminiscent of Yetis. To evoke a sense of history and significance, Chanel’s iconic numerals, ranging from 5 to 22, were embossed onto tank tops and T-shirts. The models accessorized with cascades of chains, pearls, and sautoir necklaces, while their glamorous looks were completed with smoky eyes and glittery accents. Even track pants were adorned with crystals, and leather coats gleamed in metallic shades of copper and silver.
The show’s soundtrack, curated by DJ Michel Gaubert and available on Apple Music, added to the vibrant atmosphere. Viard explained that she aimed to create a warm and lively ambiance, with models moving from room to room and interacting with each other. This approach harks back to the shows described by Karl Lagerfeld years ago, where models would apply their own makeup and style themselves.
Once again, Viard demonstrated her ability to captivate a younger audience while remaining true to Chanel’s distinctive DNA. Her strategy continues to yield success, as the brand thrives under her direction. As a nod to Lagerfeld’s legacy, some models even stripped down to their underwear and leotards in the ladies’ bathrooms midway through the video, applying rouge and makeup. The show concluded with the entire cast applauding Viard outside the club as the sun began to rise, symbolizing the triumph of yet another unforgettable Chanel fashion event.
Chanel’s spectacular late-night extravaganza at Club Castel was a tribute to fashion, glamour, and the enduring spirit of the iconic brand. Although we may have missed the lively celebration, there is no doubt that Chanel once again presented a collection that will captivate fashion enthusiasts and drive sales.
Useful links:
– For more information on Chanel’s latest collections and events, visit their official website: https://www.chanel.com/en/.
– To explore the history and legacy of Chanel, delve into the brand’s story on Vogue: https://www.vogue.com/article/chanel-paris-style-history.
