A search operation in one of the most fascinating archives of the fashion universe: this is how the Chanel SS 21 fashion show opens. A video that tells the exclusive relationship of Madame Coco with the most iconic actresses in the history of French cinema introduces, in a perhaps unprecedented way, a collection that demonstrates Chanel’s desire to breathe fresh air without ever forgetting its origins. Four models, four cinematic situations, four emotions that tell the natural elegance of the French woman par excellence, once imagined by Coco and revisited by the current Artistic Director Virginie Viard.
The ability to adapt Chanel garments to the everyday situations experienced by women all over the world, not just French, is the common thread that flows without metaphors between one look and another; creating an absolutely credible continuum between what is on the runway and what women want to wear. Once again the Chanel woman shines with a sophisticated elegance that combines comfort with refined details. The suits, iconic for the brand, have an extremely comfortable cut but are embroidered and decorated with sparkling touches such as sequins and crystals. Other archival pieces, such as dresses, for example, have changed their fit without changing the mood: the cut is flared, the ruffles are there, the bows and the vertiginous necklines embellish them. Comfort and elegance are incredibly mixed in a collection that is identifying the brand but also immersed in a new and fresh mood. The beloved tweed jackets are now paired with denim trousers and t-shirts. A typically French sexy-bon ton allure invests the vests, soft and strictly worn open, but also the headbands with bright logo, mini bags fastened at the waist and bralettes to be worn on sight. Even the prints have taken on a whole new character, merging with the world of neon and graffiti, making oversized t-shirts and midi dresses unique.
The Bermuda shorts at Chanel are still in the Olympus of next summer’s trendy trousers, in the satin and linen variants, and combined with the iconic tweed jackets or the easier t-shirts. The real trendy garment? The fitted jumpsuit with detached sleeves to be worn strictly with a chain belt at the waist.