Pre-Fall Extravagancy by Chanel

Karl Lagerfeld has surprised us again with his terrific collection named Paris-Moscou.

The line – as you could expect – was innovative, modern, and timeless, obviously inspired by the Russian motives.

Thus, it is no wonder that the show was opened by Russian model Sasha Pivovarova, and closed by her fellow Russian model Natasha Poly. It was highly appropriate, despite the fact the show has not actually been shown in Russia.

The collection strikes us with its variety, luxurious fabrics and rich embroidery. Presented were black and red leather pants, gold Cossack boots, gold shinny leggings, the classic white and black Chanel suit, accessorized with black leather gloves and long boots, military fur hats and egg-shape and straight coats.

Lots of embellished pieces of sequins, feathers and pearls made the garments look more feminine and cute. But what made me admire this collection were head-pieces which the models were wearing at the catwalk.

They were wonderful and sophisticated, one more elaborate than the other.

Speaking about his extravagant collection Lagerfeld said:

There are three things I like about Russia. I love Imperial Russia, from Catherine the Great to Faberge. I love constructivism, of course. And I love Russian folklore, which is very special. That was fun was to mix it all.”

I guess he was able to succeed in creating a Russian-like collection.

Each model was wearing something that included modernity combined with elements from ancient Russia typical clothing. Indeed, he showed everything from a very simple coat with a shawl collar and sloping babushka shoulders to tweed suits with military airs and geometric trim.

Among modern details we could see plenty of tubular or fluffy knits, a tiered silhouette and a rush of gold that was glistening on boots and metallic Cossack trousers.

When Lagerfeld was asked if he was going to make some changes in his work due to the crisis problems he said:

“These dresses come out in six or seven months from now, and the world may have changed by then.”

It’s also worth mentioning the show began with 10-minute black-and-white silent movie about Gabrielle Chanel’s early years – this was done to honor the woman who was the originator of the house which collections we like so much now.

Today, people are ready for silent movies again, as they spend time — hours, I would say — looking at text messages and e-mails,” says Lagerfeld. “I always loved silent movies.”

Karl Lagerfeld is a designer who likes to think forward and he has confessed that he already has designs on what he’ll do one year hence:

“Shanghai Express — the trip [Chanel] never made,” he said with a big smile.

The present collection is as unusual and folklore oriented as never before. To my mind it will become extremely popular with those who love Russia and Russian culture. Don’t you agree with me?

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1. December 16th, 2008 at 11:11 am
   Secile Says:

   i’ve alwys liked Chanel for the extravagant garments they create. but now i’ve really overwelmed!!! Terrific collection!!! i love folclore-based clothes very much and this line is something that is quite right to my taste. thank you very much!!!

2. December 17th, 2008 at 1:38 pm
   a star Says:

   do Russian wear this????
   i’m shocked!!!!!!!!!!!!!