For the Resort 2022 collection in Provence, France, Chanel showcased their pieces at the Carrières de Lumières, also known as the Quarries of Light, in Les Baux. The theme for this collection was inspired by the hauntingly beautiful movie “The Testament of Orpheus” by Jean Cocteau, who used these quarries as a setting. Virginie Viard, the creative director of Chanel, drew inspiration from the movie, which featured prominent figures such as Cocteau himself, Pablo Picasso, and Yul Brynner. The collection was designed to be strong, black and white, with a modern and fresh aesthetic that could easily transport viewers to locations like Petra or Egypt.
Pre-Fall 2021 saw Chanel showcasing their collection at the 16th-century Chenonceau castle in Touraine, France. This castle, known as the Chateau des Femmes, has a history tied to powerful women like Diane de Poitiers and Catherine de Medici. The theme for this collection was described by Viard as “a little princess-y,” with details inspired by the 16th century and the location. Viard drew inspiration from the symbols found in the castle, noting that Catherine de Medici’s symbol, a linked double C, bears a resemblance to Chanel’s iconic logo. The collection featured ruffled collars and other elements that were a blend of Catherine de Medici and Coco Chanel.
The Resort 2021 collection in Paris was initially intended to be shown in Capri but was moved due to the pandemic. To evoke the theme of “Balade en Méditerranée,” or A Mediterranean Jaunt, Viard worked with photographer Karim Sadli and model Mica Argañaraz to create the illusion of a Caprese sunset in Chanel’s Paris photo studio. The collection was inspired by Viard’s thoughts and dreams of summer in Capri or the South of France, featuring easy and sophisticated pieces that a cool girl would want to travel with. The destination wardrobe was designed to be versatile and stylish, appealing to a modern and chic aesthetic.
Viard, throughout these various collections, showcased her ability to draw inspiration from diverse sources and locations, creating unique and captivating pieces for Chanel. By bringing elements from films, historical figures, and iconic locations into her designs, Viard was able to create collections that were rich in storytelling and visual appeal. From the haunting beauty of the Quarries of Light to the historical elegance of Chenonceau castle, each location served as a backdrop for Viard’s creative vision, resulting in collections that were both modern and timeless.
Chanel’s Resort collections in Provence, Touraine, and Paris offer a glimpse into Viard’s creative process and her ability to weave together different influences to create cohesive and impactful collections. By drawing inspiration from art, history, and travel, Viard was able to create pieces that not only showcased Chanel’s iconic style but also pushed boundaries and explored new artistic territories. The themes of each collection, whether inspired by a movie, a historical figure, or a dreamy Mediterranean destination, added depth and meaning to the designs, creating a truly immersive and engaging fashion experience. With each new collection, Viard continues to prove herself as a visionary designer with a keen eye for detail and a unique approach to storytelling through fashion.
