Chanel’s highly anticipated Métiers d’Art show for 2024 took the fashion world by storm with its unforgettable setting and dazzling craftsmanship, held against the breath-taking backdrop of Hangzhou’s West Lake. The collection, a tribute to the intersection of French luxury and Chinese artistry, showcased Chanel’s masterful ability to blend couture with cultural resonance, all under the spotlight of China’s growing influence in global luxury fashion.
This year, the Métiers d’Art show celebrated Hangzhou’s rich cultural heritage, famously never visited by the iconic Gabrielle Chanel herself. The event sought to bridge that historical gap, inviting the world into a dreamlike fusion of old and new. The runway was suspended above the tranquil waters of West Lake, creating an ethereal illusion of models walking on water—an architectural marvel that perfectly matched the surreal elegance of the garments.
Chanel’s team, following the departure of Virginie Viard, presented a collection that captured the spirit of travel, movement, and opulence. The designs were dominated by luxurious tweed suits, reimagined in various styles, including cropped jackets and fluid skirts, merging tradition with contemporary sophistication.
A unique nod to Chanel’s ongoing journey of craftsmanship and embellishment was seen in the intricate embroidery, with camellia motifs—drawn from Gabrielle Chanel’s affection for the flower—stitching a link between Parisian luxury and Chinese artistry. The vibrant golden hues, along with feather-trimmed and sequined elements, were a visual homage to both the French haute couture legacy and Hangzhou’s historical elegance.
The highlights were the luxurious nightwear-inspired pieces, which included a beautifully padded set and denim skirts paired with chic, tailored jackets. These looks symbolized the balance between casual luxury and timeless elegance, perfectly suited for a sophisticated global traveller.
Evening’s atmosphere was completed with a stunning short film, starring Tilda Swinton, directed by Wim Wenders, that poetically captured the essence of the show.
As the Métiers d’Art collection embraced the craft and tradition of Chanel’s artisans, it also reflected the growing influence of China in shaping the future of luxury fashion.
Chanel’s 2024 Métiers d’Art show is an unparalleled demonstration of how the brand continues to weave cultural narratives into its creations, making luxury even more intimate and globally significant.
The grand setting, combined with the meticulous craftsmanship and the nod to Chinese heritage, undoubtedly cemented this event as one of the most significant in luxury fashion this year.
