7 Things You Need To Know About Chanel's Cruise 2018 Show In Paris

Chanel just showed its Cruise 2018 show in Paris, and it was absolutely golden. Never mind the cloudless, slate-grey skies, for guests entered a Grand Palais metamorphosed into a sun-bathed Isle of Gods — a Greece dreamt up by Karl Lagerfeld. It was here that the maison presented the collection “La Modernité De L’Antiquité”, or “The Modernity of Antiquity”, not just reviving but reinventing the ancient land’s powerful structures and gilded treasures. Experience the grandeur below:

1. THE INVITATION

In Gabrielle Chanel’s legendary apartment on Rue Cambon, there is a marble sculpture of a Venus, the goddess of beauty. It is this work of art that fronted the elegantly embossed show invitations, along with the collection title, “La Modernité De L’Antiquité” that signalled the Greco-Roman inspirations.

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2. THE SET

Guests sat on wooden benches flanked by chiselled rock sculptures, lofty columns and sandy pavements, channelling the otherworldly beauty of Ancient Greece.

3. THE CLOTHES

Entitled “La Modernité De L’Antiquité”, or “The Modernity of Antiquity”, Chanel’s Cruise 2018 collection spoke, too, of the Ancient Greek story but with a modern take on mythology: There were Delphos-pleated dresses; diaphanous palazzo pants; frayed tweed vests; armour-like bustiers; and airy, draped gowns fit for a Grecian goddess.

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4. THE ACCESSORIES

Bags wise, the Gabrielle returns in signature black-and-white and an eye-catching red with an owl motif (also on a round miniaudiere), while pleated, pitcher-like bags hang on shoulders, dangle from wrists and sway on backs (including little Hudson Kroenig). Gladiator sandals make a major comeback, this time supported by column heels and paired with matching strappy gloves. Wrist cuffs and upper arm swirl bracelets were essential accoutrements, while gilded laurel wreaths adorned models’ heads like crowns.

5. THE CELEBRITIES

Standing out from the crowd were the likes of Caroline de Maigret, Anna Mouglais, Keira Knightley, Liu Wen, Ellie Bamber, Tao Okamoto, Liu Shi Shi and Chelsea Island.

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6. THE INSPIRATION

At the age of seven, Karl Lagerfeld discovered the story of The Trojan War, and has been inspired ever since. This, together with his admiration of Minoan civilisation, the myths of King Minos’ palace and priestesses with snakes.

7. THE FEAST

Following the show, guests adjourned to the ultimate Greek café where a plethora of mezze were served, from freshly grilled souvlaki and pita bread with aromatic dips, to sticky pistachio bites and berries drizzled with luscious yoghurt and honey.

Karl Lagerfeld talks about the Chanel Cruise 2018 show:

By Dana Koh