When Karl Lagerfeld passed away in February 2019, the fashion world was left mourning the loss of one of its most iconic figures. Lagerfeld had been at the helm of Chanel for over three decades, and his creative vision had helped shape the brand into the global powerhouse it is today. The question on everyone’s mind was: who would take over for him?
After much speculation, it was announced that Virginie Viard would be stepping into Lagerfeld’s shoes as the new creative director of Chanel. Viard had worked alongside Lagerfeld for over 30 years and was considered by many to be his right-hand woman.
Viard had big shoes to fill, but she wasted no time in making her mark on Chanel. Her debut collection for the brand, shown at Paris Fashion Week in October 2019, was a tribute to Lagerfeld’s legacy while also showcasing her own unique vision.
One of the standout elements of Viard’s first collection was her use of bold colors and prints. She incorporated vibrant hues like fuchsia and emerald green into classic Chanel Silhouettes, giving them a modern twist. She also played with textures, mixing tweed with leather and lace to create unexpected combinations.
Another hallmark of Viard’s tenure at Chanel has been her emphasis on accessories. She has introduced new handbag styles like the 19 bag, a modern update on the classic 2.55 design, as well as bold jewelry pieces like oversized logo earrings.
Under Viard’s leadership, Chanel has continued to evolve while staying true to its heritage. Her designs are a celebration of femininity and elegance, with a touch of irreverence that keeps things interesting.
In conclusion, Virginie Viard has proven herself to be a worthy successor to Karl Lagerfeld at Chanel. Her debut collection was a triumph, showcasing her own unique vision while paying homage to Lagerfeld’s legacy. With Viard at the helm, Chanel is sure to continue its reign as one of the most iconic fashion brands in the world.