BEHIND THE STITCH: ALANI
June 21, 2024
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Chanel’s Fall/Winter 2025 fashion show, held on March 11, 2025, at the iconic Grand Palais in Paris, was a masterful blend of tradition and modernity, marking a significant moment in the fashion calendar. The event not only showcased the brand’s latest collection but also highlighted its cultural impact, drawing a diverse array of celebrities from various industries.
The Grand Palais, after a four-year renovation, reopened its doors with a new grand entrance named after Gabrielle Chanel. The luminous setting, enhanced by natural sunlight, provided a stunning backdrop that accentuated the sparkle of the attendees’ embroidered tweeds.
Chanel’s collection embraced a light and youthful aesthetic, focusing on pastel hues and airy fabrics. Hand-knit designs drew inspiration from the Art Deco iron and steel work of the Grand Palais, while skirts with front slits offered glimpses of leg, adding a subtle allure. Collars made from layers of downy feathers, trailing chiffon capes, and platform shoes introduced a playful yet sophisticated vibe. The classic Chanel tweed suit was reimagined in candy pastels, and the introduction of shorts suits modernized the traditional look.
A striking feature of the show was an enormous birdcage centerpiece, paying homage to a 1991 Jean-Paul Goude-directed Chanel commercial starring Vanessa Paradis. Models weaved around this central structure, symbolizing the brand’s enduring legacy. The eveningwear segment showcased a playful spirit, combining embellished denim with feather-dusted baby blue capes and adding chiffon trains to sparkly tweed jumpsuits. The show concluded with a performance by Riley Keough, who sang Prince’s “When Doves Cry” while perched inside the birdcage, reinforcing the collection’s themes of lightness and freedom.
The event attracted an eclectic mix of icons from the worlds of fashion, music, and film. The event wasn’t just a showcase of high fashion–it was a meeting point for some of the biggest names in entertainment, further cementing Chanel’s status as a cultural powerhouse.
Among the notable attendees was Rebecca Patricia Armstrong, who made headlines as Chanel’s newly announced brand ambassador. Her presence marked a significant moment, reflecting the brand’s strategic move to connect with a younger, global audience. Camila Cabello, who arrived alongside her rumored boyfriend, billionaire heir Henry Junior Chalhoub, sparked media buzz with their affectionate gestures. Meanwhile, Naomi Campbell, a longtime muse of the brand, reflected on Chanel’s commitment to diversity and its enduring legacy in the fashion industry. Riley Keough, an official Chanel ambassador, expressed pride in representing the house, while also discussing her family’s legacy as the custodian of Graceland after her mother’s passing.
Hollywood’s presence was undeniable, with Elle Fanning and Simone Ashley gracing the front row, representing Chanel’s ongoing influence in both film and television. Fashion titan Anna Wintour attended, reinforcing the show’s significance in shaping industry trends.
Whitney Peak, the first Black woman to be the face of a Chanel fragrance, made a statement on the brand’s evolving approach to representation, while actress and business mogul Jessica Alba bridged the gap between Hollywood glamour and entrepreneurial influence. From the Asian entertainment scene, Chinese superstar Wang Yibo was in attendance, reflecting Chanel’s global reach. Also present was the musician, Jennie of Blackpink.
These celebrities, spanning multiple industries and continents, not only amplified the show’s allure but also demonstrated Chanel’s universal appeal and its ability to resonate across generations and cultural spheres. The street style outside the venue was equally captivating, with attendees donning iconic Chanel pieces such as box jackets, brooches, and cap-toe pumps, reflecting the brand’s timeless appeal.
Among the illustrious attendees, South African singer Tyla stood out, not only for her impeccable style but also for her unique representation. Tyla’s ensemble epitomized the classic Chanel aesthetic with a modern twist. She donned a bubblegum pink top featuring corsetry detailing and a series of shimmering buttons down the front placket. This was paired with a matching pink miniskirt adorned with stylish pockets near the hemline, exuding a playful yet sophisticated vibe.
Completing her look was a tailored pink cardigan jacket with sharp shoulders and square pockets, epitomizing elegance and confidence. Her choice of black heels provided a subtle contrast, balancing the vibrant pink hues of her outfit. Accessorizing with a statement necklace featuring pearls and the iconic “Chanel” lettering, classic Chanel earrings, and delicate bracelets, Tyla’s look was both cohesive and captivating. Her hairstyle, featuring a choppy fringe, added an edgy twist, while her makeup remained understated with lined eyes and a glossy lip, allowing her ensemble to take center stage.
The diverse array of celebrities in attendance, underscored Chanel’s commitment to inclusivity and global representation. The brand’s ability to attract talent from various continents highlighted its universal appeal and its dedication to embracing different cultures and backgrounds. Naomi Campbell’s reflections on Chanel’s heritage and its strides in promoting diversity further emphasized the brand’s progressive approach.
This show was particularly noteworthy as it represented the final collection by Chanel’s in-house atelier before the anticipated arrival of Matthieu Blazy as the new creative director. The design team delivered a collection that felt both familiar and fresh, honoring the brand’s heritage while infusing contemporary elements.
Ultimately, Chanel’s Fall/Winter 2025 fashion show was a celebration of the brand’s enduring legacy, seamlessly blending classic elements with modern touches, and setting the stage for its next creative chapter under new leadership.
