The legendary fashion house celebrates craftsmanship and culture in a stunning Hangzhou showcase.
Chanel transported its audience to a world of elegance and artistry with its Métiers d’Art 2025 collection, staged on the serene waters of Hangzhou’s West Lake. The golden pagoda, illuminated against the twilight sky, served as a majestic centerpiece for a show that paid tribute to both the brand’s Parisian roots and the cultural richness of China.
A Spectacle to Remember
Guests arrived by wooden boats, their journey across the tranquil lake setting a mystical tone for the evening. As traditional Chinese drums echoed across the venue, the runway—suspended over water—came alive with designs that seamlessly blended Chanel’s iconic style with Eastern influences.
The show was more than a fashion presentation; it was an immersive experience where culture, history, and couture converged.
Gabrielle Chanel’s Eastern Inspirations
While Gabrielle “Coco” Chanel never visited China, her love for chinoiserie played a significant role in shaping her aesthetic. This collection took inspiration from the Coromandel screens that adorned her Paris apartment. The intricate lacquered designs of these screens were echoed in garments featuring detailed embroidery, silk pleats, and shimmering fabrics that mimicked the reflective waters of West Lake.
Chanel’s homage to Chinese artistry felt both respectful and visionary, bridging two worlds through fashion.
Craftsmanship Takes Center Stage
At the heart of Chanel’s Métiers d’Art collections lies the unparalleled craftsmanship of its artisans. The 2025 showcase highlighted the expertise of the maison’s twelve ateliers, from embroidery to millinery.
Tweeds adorned with delicate bird and blossom motifs, velvet gowns with fan-like pleats, and cashmere knits blended tradition with innovation. Accessories stole the show, including quilted crescent-shaped bags, patent leather opera gloves, and boots that ranged from over-the-knee designs to quirky quilted heels.
Each piece was a testament to the maison’s dedication to preserving and elevating artisanal skills.
A Collection for the Ages
The collection drew inspiration from multiple eras, featuring ’60s-style pastel twin sets, silk pajama ensembles reminiscent of old Hollywood, and modern iterations of Chanel’s iconic black-and-white tweed suits. The result was a lineup that felt timeless yet contemporary, appealing to Chanel’s global clientele.
Youthful elements, such as patent leather and bold accessories, injected energy into the designs, ensuring their relevance in today’s ever-evolving fashion landscape.
A Venue Steeped in Meaning
West Lake, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a historic hub of the silk trade, provided a meaningful setting for the show. The lake’s legendary beauty and cultural significance mirrored the themes of the collection, emphasizing a harmonious balance between heritage and modernity.
By choosing this location, Chanel reinforced its commitment to celebrating global traditions while maintaining its Parisian identity.
Looking Ahead
As Chanel awaits the announcement of its next creative director, the Métiers d’Art 2025 collection served as a powerful statement of continuity and innovation. The studio team’s ability to deliver a show of this magnitude highlights the strength of Chanel’s foundations, ensuring the brand’s legacy remains intact.
The Métiers d’Art 2025 collection wasn’t just about garments—it was about storytelling, collaboration, and the enduring allure of craftsmanship. With this show, Chanel once again proved why it stands at the pinnacle of luxury fashion, captivating audiences with its ability to honor the past while inspiring the future.
