Karl Lagerfeld has never been to India but never one to pass an opportunity the recent Chanel presentation entitled ”Paris-Bombay” held in Paris at the dome in the Grand Palais had all the hallmarks of the excess of the Raj. An amazing opulent set was the backdrop for clothes that even though they had all the hallmarks of the finest of traditional Indian craft finishing were all hand finished in Paris. It all has the look of the privilaged continuing to party while everyhting around crumbles. I’m not sure whether this was tongue in cheek or serious but whatever it was the clothes do the talking here and are beautifully crafted for a modern woman whether Indian or from anywhere else for that matter.
I continue to be mesmerised by the House of Chanel. By all accounts the Paris Spring/ Summer preview was a spectacular event which took place in the Grand Palais with the 80 piece French Philharmonic orchestra playing in the background music by Bjork and the Verve. Inés de la Fressange, the original ‘Coco’ muse appeared after a 21 year absence, reportedly after a falling out with Karl Lagerfeld. The youngest model was 2 1/2 year old Hudson who appeared on the catwalk with his Dad, model Brad Koenig. Watch out for umbrella’s, feathers, deliberate holes, smoky eyes and pale lips, beautiful traditional Chanel trademark suits and sensible shoes which I like but will probably be slated by the younger fashion trend followers. The Video below was the best one I could find which gives a real flavour of the show…..Enjoy
Karl and Ines
Hudson and Dad in matching Chanel Cream cardi/jackets and Jeans
The Art of Drawing Fashion is one that was an often neglected art form and thirty years ago when Munich born Joelle Chariau started collecting fashion illustration, she had no problem gathering them since no one wanted them. Her collection ‘Drawing Fashion’ covers the 20th and 21st century from Galerie Bartsche Chariau and is being shown for the first time in London this coming November. Co -curated by fashion historian Colin McDowell with multi media additions, this will undoubtedly be a most interesting, not to be missed exhibition should you find yourself in London later in the year.
The Design Museum situated on the Thames by Tower Bridge is the venue for this exhibition drawn from the collections of Dior, Comme des Garcons, Chanel, Victor & Rolf, Poiret, Lacroix and Mc Queen. Illustrated by Erte, Lepape, Rene Gruau, Antonio and Mats Gustafson.
From November 17th-6th March, accompanying book to be published by Prestel
