Jose Vargas
As the models of Chanel graced the Paris runway, the ambiance of the historic villa Noailles in the south of France resonated in the collection. The villa, known for hosting luminaries such as Luis Buñuel, Man Ray, Dalí, and Karl Lagerfeld, has been a symbol of art for nearly a century. Virginie Viard’s spring collection was a sunlit homage to the villa’s gardens, grounding Chanel’s typically high-brow allure in an earthy, relaxed summer vibe.
The collection aimed for a harmonious blend of contrasts, with multicolored tweed dressing gowns, lace trimmings, sporty touches, and low-slung outfits reflecting an air of carefree leisure. While some moments in the display may have benefited from a touch more innovation, the primary goal was to make Chanel relatable. The use of mid-size models exemplified Viard’s intent to connect with a broader audience, moving away from Karl Lagerfeld’s signature high-glam aesthetic.
“Penélope Cruz’s Deep Connection to Fashion”
Penélope Cruz’s profound appreciation for fashion is rooted in her grandmother’s handcrafted Manila shawl, a symbol of her family’s craftsmanship and love. Her grandmother spent countless hours sewing the shawl by hand, leaving a lasting impact on Cruz’s appreciation for artisanal fashion. This sentiment aligns with Chanel’s commitment to craftsmanship, emphasizing the importance of preserving traditional, hands-on techniques in fashion.
Cruz’s love for fashion stems from cherished memories and heirlooms, making her deeply connected to the world of artisanal craftsmanship. She highlights the importance of maintaining this craftsmanship in the face of changing trends and technology.
“Miu Miu’s Exploration of Contrasts”
Miu Miu’s latest collection at the Palais d’Iéna in Paris was a study in contrasts, perfectly capturing the brand’s history of balancing cutting-edge fashion with timeless elegance. The collection featured preppy elements, ’70s academia-inspired ensembles, and sporty undertones. The use of splashes of sparkle, vibrant stripes, and luxurious gold accents added an extra layer of richness to the collection.
Despite the contrasts, Miu Miu maintained its inherent style, intertwining different narratives into a cohesive collection. This display demonstrated that the brand, led by Miuccia Prada, remains as relevant as ever.
“Paris Hilton: Glitz, Motherhood, and Entrepreneurship”
Paris Hilton, a star in her own right, illuminated Paris Fashion Week with her presence and excitement. The renowned heiress and businesswoman shared her love for Paris, fashion, and the joys of motherhood. She expressed her anticipation for her upcoming fragrance launch, new album produced by Sia, and various business ventures, including her involvement in the Metaverse and Roblox.
Paris Hilton’s deep bond with her sister Nicky was evident, as they enjoyed Paris Fashion Week together. The sisters reminisced about the past and their special pre-party for Nicky’s birthday, highlighting the enduring connection between them.
Hilton also expressed her love for her eight-month-old son, Phoenix, demonstrating how motherhood holds a special place in her heart. Despite her busy schedule, her devotion to her family is unwavering.
“Seán McGirr Named Creative Director of Alexander McQueen”
The house of Alexander McQueen, under the Kering umbrella, has announced Seán McGirr as its new creative director. McGirr, who previously led Ready-to-Wear at JW Anderson, brings a diverse background that includes experience with luxury brands like Dries Van Noten and commercial names like Uniqlo. His creative journey, which includes time at Burberry, Vogue Hommes Japan, and Central Saint Martins, reflects a blend of luxury and commercial sensibilities.
This appointment follows the departure of Sarah Burton, who led Alexander McQueen from 2010 to 2023. McGirr’s arrival is seen as a promising new chapter for the brand, known for its innovative and disruptive approach to fashion.
