Chanel Brings Couture to the Clouds with a Magical Show on West Lake!

The Chanel Métiers d’art 2025 show at West Lake in Hangzhou was a masterclass in blending heritage craftsmanship with modern sensibilities. Without a permanent creative director at the helm, the in-house Creative Studio rose to the occasion, presenting a collection that was both a tribute to Chanel’s storied artisans and a bold step forward for the house.

Set against the ethereal backdrop of West Lake, the show was an immersive experience. Guests like Lupita Nyong’o, Tilda Swinton, and Lucy Boynton arrived by boat to find a runway of winding docks surrounded by misty waters. Traditional drum beats and a solo pianist enhanced the dreamy atmosphere, setting the tone for the unveiling of Chanel’s Prefall 2025 Métiers d’art collection.

At its core, this collection celebrated Chanel’s collaboration with artisans like Maison Lesage and Atelier Lognon, whose impeccable embroidery and pleating techniques added layers of opulence. Inspired by Gabrielle Chanel’s love for Coromandel screens, the collection embraced deep blues, metallic blacks, and intricate blossom motifs, evoking the elegance of Chinese art.

Despite the couture-level detailing, the collection exuded an effortless charm. Classic tweeds and shimmery black skirt suits were paired with printed bodysuits, while jeans and cropped gold suits brought a sense of playful wearability. Feathers, neon knits, and embellished denim injected youthful energy, reminiscent of Karl Lagerfeld’s signature balance of extravagance and fun.

The Métiers d’art show wasn’t just a celebration of Chanel’s past; it was a promise for its future. By grounding its opulence in approachable styling, the Creative Studio has redefined luxury for the brand, showcasing an optimism and vibrancy that will resonate with its next chapter, whoever takes the helm.

The evening on West Lake wasn’t just a fashion show; it was a poetic ode to Chanel’s ability to merge tradition with innovation, leaving the fashion world eager for what comes next.

(All images courtesy Chanel)