Chanel’s Métiers d’art show for 2024–2025 transported its audience into a dreamscape on the banks of West Lake in Hangzhou. The nighttime setting heightened the ethereal charm, casting the iconic Chinese landscape in a spellbinding glow that echoed the collection’s muse—the Coromandel screens that belonged to Coco Chanel. These ornate creations, adorned with idyllic depictions of pagodas, rolling hills, and lush flora, inspired not only the collection’s visual palette but also its poetic narrative.
The show opened with a short film directed by Wim Wenders, featuring Tilda Swinton, Leah Dou, and Xin Zhilei, seamlessly blending cinematic allure with sartorial grandeur. This collaboration set the tone for an evening of timeless elegance and meticulous craftsmanship.
The collection was a testament to Chanel’s unparalleled refinement. Structured coats with pronounced shoulders exuded strength, while intricate embroidery and floral motifs brought a touch of delicacy. Tweed and satin interwove to create A-line skirts, short jackets, and daring thigh-high boots, offering a harmonious blend of tradition and modernity. Long, shoulder-padded coats, flared trousers, and slip dresses added fluidity, while knitted skirts showcased the maison’s versatility.
The color palette mirrored the richness of the Coromandel screens, with deep shades of jade and black creating a dramatic foundation, punctuated by gleaming gold tones that evoked a timeless opulence.
Chanel Métiers d’art 2024–2025 was more than a collection; it was an immersive experience, weaving the spirit of Hangzhou’s heritage with the maison’s legacy of artistry. The dreamlike ambiance of the evening lingered long after the final look graced the runway—a poignant reminder of Chanel’s enduring ability to reimagine and reinvent the art of couture.
Photos courtesy of Chanel
