CHANEL has once again raised the bar with its Métiers d’Art 2024/25 show in Hangzhou, China, presenting a collection that celebrated the intricate artistry of its ateliers while paying homage to the cultural beauty of its setting. Held against the stunning backdrop of West Lake, the show delivered a visual feast of craftsmanship, storytelling, and modern elegance.
The runway, floating over the shimmering waters of West Lake, set the stage for a truly enchanting evening. The models walked under a canopy of soft lights reflecting on the still waters, creating an almost dreamlike ambiance. The choice of venue wasn’t just aesthetic—it symbolized a fusion of CHANEL’s Parisian heritage with Hangzhou’s timeless grace. As the models graced the runway, the interplay of light, water, and couture brought the collection to life.
The collection drew inspiration from Gabrielle Chanel’s cherished Chinese lacquer screens, which have long adorned her Parisian apartment. These screens, particularly one depicting Hangzhou and its legendary West Lake, served as a muse for the collection’s aesthetic.
The designs showcased intricate floral embroideries and a palette featuring jade green, pink, and sky blue hues, reflecting the elegance of Chinese artistry. The collection paid homage to the savoir-faire of CHANEL’s artisan partners, highlighting the exceptional craftsmanship of the Maisons d’art.
The event was further enriched by a film directed by Wim Wenders, featuring Tilda Swinton and CHANEL’s local ambassadors. This cinematic piece explored the beauty and cultural depth of Hangzhou, offering a narrative that complemented the collection’s themes.
By choosing Hangzhou as the venue, CHANEL not only celebrated a city with a profound cultural heritage but also acknowledged its modern significance. This decision underscored the brand’s commitment to honoring its historical inspirations while engaging with contemporary audiences.
The Métiers d’Art Collection: A Testament to Craftsmanship
CHANEL’s Métiers d’Art collections are renowned for celebrating the artisans who craft the house’s iconic designs, and this year’s collection delivered a masterclass in haute craftsmanship. The intricate detailing, luxurious textures, and carefully curated silhouettes blended seamlessly with modern influences and nods to Chinese artistry.
Sophistication in Tweed
The classic CHANEL tweed was reimagined with refined embellishments, such as pearl accents and floral appliqués. One standout piece featured a crisp white cropped tweed jacket paired with a tiered pleated dress and layered ruby and pearl necklaces. The look embodied a sense of delicate sophistication and timeless femininity, complemented by a quilted white mini clutch.
Drama in Leather
Glossy black leather made a powerful statement in the collection. A structured leather jacket with metal grommets was styled over a pleated skirt, showcasing CHANEL’s ability to blend toughness with elegance. Paired with a quilted black handbag featuring bold chain details, this look captured the modern, confident CHANEL woman.
Romantic Hues and Textures
Soft pastel tones appeared in quilted satin jackets trimmed with ethereal fur, offering a dreamy take on outerwear. A mint-green jacket, styled over a matching floral jacquard dress, exemplified understated luxury. The delicate textures and soft colors echoed the tranquility of West Lake, creating a harmonious connection between the collection and its setting.
Sculptural Jewelry and Statement Accessories
CHANEL’s Métiers d’Art collections are as much about the accessories as the clothing, and this year’s jewelry stood out for its artistic boldness. Layered necklaces featuring camellias, pearls, and ruby-colored stones added an opulent touch. A delicate bow bracelet adorned with diamonds was paired with a soft white mini bag, further emphasizing the balance between strength and softness.
Highlight Looks from the Runway
- Ethereal White Layers A pleated white maxi dress with fluttering layers was paired with a fitted tweed jacket. Ruby and pearl necklaces cascaded down the bodice, while a quilted clutch completed the look. The ensemble spoke to CHANEL’s mastery of balancing opulence with wearability.
- Mint Green Luxe A mint-green ensemble featured a fur-trimmed quilted jacket paired with a matching jacquard skirt. The plush textures and delicate hues captured the essence of refined luxury.
- Black Leather Elegance A long black leather trench dress styled with layered pearl necklaces and a black camellia brooch evoked classic CHANEL drama. The glossy leather added a modern edge, making this look a standout of the evening.
- Pearls and Pleats Another highlight was a white pleated satin dress adorned with sculptural pearl and floral necklaces. This look paired softness with structure, offering a modern take on CHANEL’s signature aesthetic.
- Golden Glamour: Metallic gold was a recurring theme, seen in luxurious lamé suits and flowing dresses adorned with intricate floral appliqués. A particularly striking piece was a slinky gold slip dress accessorized with layered gold jewelry, evoking a sense of opulence and modern royalty.
A Cultural Connection
By hosting the Métiers d’Art show in Hangzhou, CHANEL paid homage to the city’s rich heritage and cultural significance. The serene beauty of West Lake served as a fitting metaphor for the collection’s focus on harmony, tradition, and innovation. The seamless blend of Eastern and Western influences underscored CHANEL’s commitment to global artistry and timeless elegance.
The CHANEL Métiers d’Art 2024/25 show in Hangzhou was more than a fashion presentation—it was a celebration of craftsmanship, creativity, and cultural storytelling. From reimagined tweeds to delicate pastel hues and bold leather ensembles, the collection exemplified the meticulous artistry of CHANEL’s ateliers. Against the stunning backdrop of West Lake, the house once again proved its ability to create magic, blending tradition and innovation into a truly unforgettable experience.
Photos by Chanel