In classic Chanel fashion, tweed, lace and leather were popular themes for the Pre-fall 2016 collection. It’s no surprise that this epic collection was shown in Rome, where Karl Lagerfeld and the lady herself, Coco Chanel, have a long history. Chanel is known for her incredible and incredible shows which choose the theme and play everything in the show. Some of Chanel’s more popular picks include the Spring 2013 extreme sports theme (where surfboards, parasails and lifeboats are all accessories and are all adorned with Chanel’s iconic double C logo), the Resort 2008 space theme, the Resort 2009 swimming theme ( in which models wearing every letter of the word Chanel plunged into a large pool), the Fall 2010 ice theme (in which a huge glacier was the centerpiece of the show and where the models floated to and fro), and the Spring 2012 under the sea theme amongst many another extravagant theme.
So it is no surprise that this year, there’s another awesome theme. The theme of the Chanel Pre-fall 2016 show was cinematically inspired and took place at the Cinecitta film studio, which is the biggest film studio in Europe and is known for having some of the best technology and set builders. This is clearly seen in the attractive set, where the runway is equipped with a gazebo in the center, a city setting, and a metro station. It also flaunts realistic-looking statues, building facades, and plants everywhere that are sure to amaze the whole audience. This show was also Bella Hadid’s debut runway show and she proved that she can model in addition to her supermodel sister Gigi.
Image provided by chanel.com
Not only are the sets astonishing, but the show itself is a Chanel classic transformed perfect for contemporary times. The show started with Lagerfeld’s short film Once and Forever, starring Kristen Stewart as Coco Chanel. The models then started walking the runway and their outfits were revealed. Tweed is a real Chanel classic and was seen this show in tailor-made tweed jackets over leather skirts, in pairs walking the runway in full tweed all the way down to the shoes, and suit jackets as dresses over tweed tights and sneakers. Chanel tweeds are generally featured in bright colours like pink and white, but this season they’re sporting a demure nude and light brown.
While there are numerous feminine looks that the ladies showcase on the show, there’s also menswear inspiration that’s very prevalent. Business suits and trousers are worn on models and tied at the waist to create a feminine twist on classic menswear pieces. Sneakers have also become a staple for Chanel shows and are paired with anything from tights to pants to dresses. One of my favourite pieces is a glamorous ankle length robe in gold embroidery with jewels around the neckline and waist which is paired with a pair of ankle high gladiator type sandals. One of my other favorites is the ankle length dress which has a surprising lace trim around mid thigh. The neckline is also layered with lace and a fantastic coat with a masculine silhouette is thrown over the ensemble.
All in all, Karl Lagerfeld never fails to impress and never fails to immortalize Coco Chanel’s masterpiece in all her designs and shows. She has a lovely way of taking what we know as “the Chanel classic” and giving it her own modern twist that actually brings her pieces to the forefront of fashion and shows why Chanel is still top of the line today.
