Since 2002, Chanel has been hosting the Métiers d’art workshop series in a different city every year, focusing on exquisite craftsmanship. This season’s fashion show takes us to Africa, specifically the Palais de Justice (former courthouse) in Dakar, the capital of Senegal. It is the first large-scale fashion show organized by a luxury brand in West Africa.
This season’s collection, opened with the singer Obree Daman’s voice and the dancers from École des Sables dance school, showcasing the perfect fusion of traditional and contemporary African dance.
The Workshop series was created by Chanel’s Paris design studio in collaboration with the le19M workshop headquarters located in porte d’Aubervilliers, where 11 Maisons d’art workshops are located. The designs are filled with the charm of the 1970s, presented through rich botanical motifs, flowing lines, geometric forms, warm colors, and exquisite craftsmanship.
Chanel’s first location in Africa was carefully planned and prepared by creative director Virginie Viard three years ago, with the intention of fostering communication through this collection. Virginie Viard said, “Through sincere and deep exchanges that have been brewing for a long time, the warmth and heartfelt touch of these interactions have been the driving force behind my work. I have also tried to transform and elevate these feelings. These wonderful encounters have been the inspiration for my creative journey, just like this collection.”
Tailored oversized coats, fitted flared pants, 70s-style collars, platform shoes, loose-fitting sweatshirts, colorful plaid, and front-short-back-long jumpsuits are designed to combine with the brand’s aesthetic elements. Classic design symbols, delicate floral embroidery, clusters of camellias, intertwined pearls, gorgeous jewel buttons, and sparkling beads are harmoniously combined with black or white pleated lace to create a sense of harmony. The entire collection presents a flourishing trend of that era, with a free and unrestrained atmosphere.
