5 Things to Know About Chanel's SS21 Show
From a star-studded attendance to statement accessories.
Although the traditional Fashion Month that we remember wasn’t able to happen this Spring/Summer 2021 season, the past few weeks marked some of the buzziest moments in the industry this year. Adding to the list, Virginie Viard brought minimal staff and in-person spectators to Paris‘ Grand Palais to showcase a Hollywood-inspired collection for Chanel.
Prior to the show, fashion followers were hyped with a series of teasers released by iconic photographer duo, Inez & Vinoodh. The Dutch creatives shot a collection of photos and videos featuring the likes of Rianne Van Rompaey, Mica Argañaraz and Louise de Chevigny in cinematic settings.
As in-person guests sat down and virtual viewers tuned in via livestream, the show kicked off with a grand set that highlighted the key inspiration for this season. Instead of walking down a traditional T-shaped runway, models strutted across the all-white set, in front of the giant Chanel sign.
From the modern looks and statement accessories, to the celebrities in attendance, we’ve rounded up all the things you need to know about the luxury house’s SS21 collection.
Location
Chanel
This season was no exception – as always, Chanel headed to Paris’ Grand Palais for a newly-themed show. Highlighting the Hollywood influence, the venue showcased a blown-up version of Chanel’s logo reminiscent of the iconic Californian landmark, where the models would walk across. Guests were seated just a few meters away to witness the collection from a safe distance.
Collection
Chanel
“I was thinking about actresses at the photocall, on the red carpet, that moment when they’re being called to by the photographers: their faces a little distracted, their attitude a little out of sync with the outfits they’re wearing,” Viard shared her key inspiration in a press release. “This collection is a tribute to the muses of the House… Gabrielle Chanel and Karl Lagerfeld dressed so many actresses in films and in real life. I was thinking about them who make us dream so much. But without wanting to replicate. Without falling into a vintage citation. I wanted it to be very joyful, colorful, and very vibrant too.”
Staying true to the brand’s DNA, Viard opted to showcase an array of tweed suits this season. Models walked the runway in full suit sets, while some other looks were styled with contrasting satin fabrics. Meanwhile, fluid silhouettes took the stage in the form of lengthy dresses and boxy tees, highlighted with fluorescent prints inspired by neon lights. Elsewhere, striped patterns and lace pieces were seen throughout the collection, on breezy, summer-ready skirts, shirts and trousers.
Beauty
Lucioni – Oberraouch/Gorunway.com
Keeping the Hollywood influence in mind, Chanel’s global creative makeup and color director Lucia Pica opted for glamorous, smokey looks this time around. Models walked out with a matte base complete with gray and black eyeshadow for a modern feel. Keeping things simple, Pica highlighted the natural features on each model’s face, keeping away from adding any color to the lips or cheeks. As for hair, effortless ponytails were styled with chic headpieces.
Accessories
Lucioni – Oberraouch/Gorunway.com
Lucioni – Oberraouch/Gorunway.com
Lucioni – Oberraouch/Gorunway.com
Lucioni – Oberraouch/Gorunway.com
Lucioni – Oberraouch/Gorunway.com
Lucioni – Oberraouch/Gorunway.com
Chanel’s SS21 show featured a wide range of accessories. Just when we thought the trend was coming close to an end, extra mini versions of the 19 Bag were spotted hanging from belts, bracelets and necklaces. Layering was one of many keywords on the runway, with chains and beaded jewelry worn atop another. Highlighting the range was a bolo tie-shaped chain accentuated with the iconic CC logo, along with a luxe cardholder lanyard.
Attendance
Chanel
Chanel
Chanel
Chanel
Chanel
Chanel
Although the show was socially distanced with travel restrictions due to the ongoing pandemic, Chanel did not disappoint with its celebrity attendance. BLACKPINK‘s Jennie and G-Dragon arrived as the house’s K-pop ambassadors, while Lily-Rose Depp came dressed in a tweed jacket and jeans. Meanwhile, Margot Robbie opted for a simple, modern look with a white jacket and black shorts, and Kristen Stewart highlighted her all-white outfit with a black tie.
