Chanel recently made headlines with its spring-summer ready-to-wear show, where a giant empty cage greeted guests, symbolizing the house’s current state of creative direction. With the departure of Virginie Viard, Chanel is in search of a new creative leader, leaving the fashion world eagerly anticipating the appointment. In a move towards diversity, Chanel named Lupita Nyong’o as its newest ambassador, marking a pivotal moment for the fashion house that has faced criticism for its lack of inclusivity in the past. This announcement follows the appointment of Leena Nair as Chanel’s global chief executive in 2022, making her the only woman of color at the helm of a major luxury brand.
The Chanel spring collection showcased a variety of familiar elements from the brand’s repertoire, ranging from chiffon capes to iconic little black dresses. Despite the multitude of signature pieces on display, the collection lacked cohesion and a distinct soul that once characterized Chanel’s shows. The inclusion of foulard-printed gowns felt out of place, detracting from the overall narrative. The show featured star appearances by Riley Keough and Lupita Nyong’o, among others, possibly as a distraction from Chanel’s current transitional phase. Chanel is a fashion powerhouse that will undoubtedly weather this period, but the decision to find a new designer to reshape its future vision is crucial.
Lupita Nyong’o expressed her excitement and sense of responsibility as the newest Chanel ambassador, emphasizing the significance of being a part of a legacy brand that represents dynamism, femininity, and regality. Nyong’o is committed to contributing to a narrative shift in fashion, drawing inspiration from iconic model and activist Bethann Hardison’s efforts to promote diversity in the industry. Nyong’o’s appointment serves as a symbol of progress in an industry criticized for its lack of representation, with a focus on conscious daily efforts to maintain inclusivity. By occupying the role of a brand ambassador, Nyong’o aims to send a powerful message to young girls who seek representation and validation in the world of fashion.
At Louis Vuitton’s spring collection, Nicolas Ghesquière presented a dazzling blend of opulence and chaos, showcasing the brand’s prowess in merging cultural references with futuristic couture. The collection featured religious undertones and oversized accessories, occasionally overwhelming spectators with its divergence of styles. Miu Miu, the intellectual baby sister of Prada, explored the theme of youth in its latest collection, transforming childhood garments into subversive statements. The playful contrast between sophistication and playfulness captured the essence of Miu Miu’s rebellious ethos, with a remarkable cast of celebrities, including Alexa Chung and Willem Dafoe, adding to the show’s charm. Miuccia Prada’s ability to inject humor and subversion into serious fashion was evident in this collection, emphasizing the fluidity and freedom of experimentation in youth.
