CHANEL MÉTIERS D’ART SHOW 2024/25
Beneath the soft glow of moonlight on Hangzhou’s storied West Lake, Chanel presented its 2024/25 Métiers d’Art collection—a celebration of craftsmanship, culture, and the timeless allure of fashion. This event marked a poetic meeting of worlds, blending the brand’s Parisian legacy with the delicate artistry of Chinese heritage.
The runway, an illusion of floating pathways above the shimmering lake, seemed to suspend time itself. Guests arrived by boat, greeted by the hushed elegance of West Lake at dusk. The setting, steeped in history and beauty, felt like stepping into one of the Coromandel screens Gabrielle Chanel so adored—those same lacquered masterpieces that inspired her designs and adorned her Parisian apartment.
True to the Métiers d’Art ethos, each piece in the collection told a story of meticulous artistry. Tweeds with embroidered camellias—the flower Chanel famously cherished—mingled with gilded details and feather-light fabrics. Jackets with mandarin collars evoked traditional Chinese tailoring, while flowing skirts and velvet coats captured the romantic serenity of the lake’s surroundings.
A palette of jade greens, soft blues, and shimmering golds reflected the natural harmony of Hangzhou’s landscapes, while classic black-and-white silhouettes anchored the collection in Chanel’s signature aesthetic. Accessories, from pearl-studded bags to jewelry inspired by ancient Chinese artifacts, embodied a dialogue between tradition and modernity.
At its heart, the show was more than a fashion presentation; it was an homage to the artisans whose hands bring these visions to life. The Maisons d’Art—Chanel’s ateliers specializing in embroidery, millinery, and feather work—showcased their unparalleled expertise, bridging centuries of savoir-faire with contemporary design.
By choosing Hangzhou, a city steeped in history yet pulsating with modern energy, Chanel crafted a narrative of unity. It reminded the world that fashion is not only about creating beauty, but also about preserving the traditions and stories that connect us across time and space.
MUSIC BY CHANEL
IMAGES IN COURTESY OF CHANEL
TEXT BY AFRA RE
