As usual, Karl Lagerfeld wowed Joel & Son with his Haute Couture collection. Expecting the unexpected after the Chanelified supermarche backdrop we saw earlier this year for the RTW collection; we were pleasantly surprised when the designer decided to tone down his infamous, highly exaggerative show space to accomodate a small audience in a more intimate and modest setting.
A fireplace blazing computerised flames and a big, old, baroque gilded mirror placed above each mantel appeared at either end of the catwalk. A big difference from a designer who famously skates across time like fashion's answer to a human time machine!
It was clear Lagerfeld wanted his guests to focus on the impressive sartorial workmanship rather than any bells and whistles. The change was such a contrast that each guest’s press packet included a note explaining that the decor was a homage to Le Corbusier, an architect whose minimalistic urban aesthetic played a central role in the modernist movement.
Seventy one looks in total meandered back and forth across the runway showing a rational and functional beauty about the designs. Rusty reds, shades of silver and gold elements proved evocative to the Royal opulence of Versailles, whilst linear structure clashed with soft feathers, pretty florals (Camelia’s obviously) and delicate bead work. Classic Chanel tweeds were given a twist by tiering the pieces and sculptural skirts were shown with matching knee length shorts underneath. Lagerfeld also experimented with substantial shapes crafting stiff lines from plasticised lace or sharp shoulders, as well as remodelling Chanel’s famous quilting through lots of crunchy crystal embroidery.
Whilst pregnant model Ashley Good stole the headlines walking in this year’s Chanel Haute Couture wedding gown, Joel & Son are equally as excited by the designers use of embellishment. The incredibly dense adornment is almost deceiving to the eye from afar. When looked at closely, each single, delicate bead is hand embroidered to the highest degree of craftsmanship.
We are continuously inspired by Karl Lagerfeld’s designs for Chanel and work incredibly hard to provide our clients with the newest and best innovations in Haute Couture Fabric. Every woman has a different perception of how they wish to look and with the ability to select a top-quality fabric you are able to design whatever you want, however you want. Get the look with us here at Joel & Son where our experts would be delighted to assist you!
A pristinely beautiful, almost untouchable collection. Bravo Karl!
All photographs used are for illustrative purposes only
