Chanel 2010 Couture Collection

[Images via Style.com]

A progression of structure and color swept through the Chanel Fall couture runway for the Fall 2009 Couture collection. Beginning on a classic note, Karl Lagerfield sent tailored skirt suits hushed in grey, brown, and navy hues to set the simple opulence synonymous with the Chanel brand. The dress and coat ensembles may have been stream-lined but jeweled embellishments and graphic patterns brought a fresh breath to the classic looks. The lace tights and colorful oxford shoe pairings also brought a delicate, dark asymmetry to the twist on the menswear fabrications. But as the show progressed, skirt suits morphed into ethereal tulle evening gowns, and the smoky colors intensified to a spectrum of jeweled purples, reds and blues. The silhouettes also became more daring with dramatic “tails” skimming the ground behind mid-thigh sequenced dresses and patterns exploded in firework designs and bursting floral jewels to bring the intensity to a heightened severity.

The Chanel couture show was a detour from Lagerfeld’s recent past shows that were more engrossed in lighter, natural glamour but a movement towards a darker, more mysterious ambiance made the show all the more striking. Inspiration? Perhaps the mysterious Madame Coco Chanel herself, as she is the subject of two films soon to be released.

-Jaimie Sanita

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