Filling Karl Lagerfeld’s shoes is quite a challenge but then again, Karl once found himself in the same position, when he had to prove that he was worthy of his predecessor, Gabrielle Chanel herself. Despite all the difficulties she faced as the new artistic director of CHANEL, Virginie Viard managed to deliver a solid result that to many seemed like a breath of fresh air, able to infuse the brand with a new, more contemporary vibe.

Set at the Grand Palais, the CHANEL Cruise 2020 Show employed a retro train station aesthetic in a more modest and low-key production context than usual, but no less impressive and meaningful. Viard’s take on fashion proved to be that of modern minimalism. Wide pants and gabardine jackets, chunky cardigans, girly miniskirt suits, bow-adorned dresses, vivid colors and streetwear items exhibited a plethoric mood full of freshness and diversity. Meanwhile, the core of the CHANEL DNA remained intact with tweed jackets and androgynous garments reminiscent of Gabrielle’s artistic heritage.

Trendy fanny packs, neon details and carefully used metallics, juxtaposed to a stage channeling Belle Epoque beauty are indicative of Virginie Viard’s intention to go forward with the best of what is in the past and the coolest of what is happening now. We cannot wait to see her vision unfold.