When it comes to fashion, few names are as iconic as Chanel. The brand, founded by the legendary Coco Chanel, has become synonymous with luxury and timeless style.
However, with the passing of longtime creative director Karl Lagerfeld in 2019, many have wondered who will take the reins of one of fashion’s most prestigious houses. So, who designs for Chanel after Karl?
The Immediate Successor: Virginie Viard
Following Lagerfeld’s death, Virginie Viard was appointed as Chanel’s artistic director. Viard had worked at Chanel for over 30 years, starting as an intern in the embroidery department and eventually becoming Lagerfeld’s closest collaborator. In her role as artistic director, Viard has continued to uphold the house’s signature aesthetic while infusing her own vision.
One of Viard’s first collections for Chanel was presented for the Spring/Summer 2020 season. The collection paid tribute to Lagerfeld’s legacy while also showcasing Viard’s own style. The pieces featured classic Chanel motifs such as tweed suits and quilted handbags but with a slightly more relaxed and effortless feel.
Collaborations:
In addition to her work at Chanel, Viard has also collaborated with other brands and artists. She designed costumes for the Paris Opera Ballet production of “Orpheus and Eurydice” in 2020 and created a capsule collection for luxury French knitwear brand Montaigne Market.
The Future Stars: Emerging Designers at Chanel
While Viard is currently at the helm of design at Chanel, there are also a number of emerging designers who are making their mark on the brand.
One such designer is Rok Hwang, who joined Chanel as a studio director in 2019. Hwang previously worked at Céline and Louis Vuitton before launching his own label Rokh in 2018. At Chanel, Hwang has been responsible for designing the house’s knitwear and has already received critical acclaim for his work.
Another up-and-coming designer at Chanel is Charles de Vilmorin. De Vilmorin won the ANDAM Grand Prize in 2020, a prestigious award for emerging talent in fashion. He has since been invited to collaborate with Chanel on a project that will be unveiled later this year.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, while Karl Lagerfeld’s passing was undoubtedly a loss for the fashion world, it is clear that there are many talented designers who are carrying on his legacy at Chanel. Virginie Viard has done an excellent job of continuing the house’s signature aesthetic while also infusing her own vision. Additionally, emerging designers such as Rok Hwang and Charles de Vilmorin bring fresh perspectives to the brand and ensure that Chanel will remain relevant and exciting for years to come.