Taking Chanel to new heights, Virginie Viard presented her first solo prêt-a-porter collection on a purposely-built rooftop of Paris inside the capital’s Grand Palais. Focusing on the multi-layered urban landscape, the collection is rich in frills, voluminous sleeves and multi-level skirts. Viard claims that she found inspiration in the new Kristen Stewart film about the life of Gene Seberg.
Viard creates an intricate game between the young Parisienne and Chanel DNA
The rompers in the collection are in the spotlight with their leg-baring shorts. Signature tweed is present with beautiful geometric motifs; while the logo is cleverly integrated into the fabric of delicate tones, giving the impression of a cityscape, a rooftop network with the shadows of buildings during a summer sunset.
Viard created an intricate game between the young Parisienne and Chanel DNA – a typically French style, which Karl never detached himself from. The Kaiser used it in his collections, albeit in other forms and iterations.
On the whole, it’s apparent that Chanel is too big as a brand and thus leaves Viard with a dilemma. The iconic maison cannot be changed quickly, and she is unlikely to do so. As a result, the future collections will at least keep up with the brand DNA, which is certainly a recipe for success.