Chanel by Karl Lagerfeld: Organic Chic
By Mari Davis
(Photo by Javier Mateo)
PARIS, Oct 10, 2003/ FW/ --- Perhaps, Karl Lagerfeld’s greatest strength in designing Chanel is his uncanny ability to interpret Mademoiselle’s work and translate it to the present.
And for Spring / Summer 2004, Karl Lagerfeld brought Chanel to the 21st century, effectively expanding the target market of the venerable label to the 18-25 age group, with his new interpretation of Mademoiselle’s creations.
Staging the show on a runway resembling a boardwalk, Monsieur Lagerfeld matched the pale rose and dark red signature tweed suit with white or black lace.
New this season is lengthened lace skirts with irregular hemlines, probably crocheted by artisans in Brittany.
Chiffon dresses and pleated skirts floated beneath lightweight overcoats, and a sparkly metallic skirt, layered in fringe, was paired with a black top replete with silver appliqué.
Strands of beads, cascades of pearls, necklaces strung with Christmas-type ornaments and even black leather camellia brooches polished off the classically elegant Chanel wardrobe.
New Chanel bags are designed like transparent videotape cassettes. It comes with matching earrings.
College jackets and jerseys sporting the Chanel logo were also sent on the runway, which is sure to be a hit with college kids next season.
And giving a nod to the current floral trend, Monsieur Lagerfeld put flowers as prints on swimsuits and as designs on the crocheted dresses and skirts.
The finale of gossamer creamy eveningwear layered in circles, a cobalt-blue cocktail dress with an outer layer of black taffeta, and an appropriately moss-colored chiffon gown with lilting stole, all displayed the inherent elegance of fashion's most prominent star.
When Karl Lagerfeld came out, a deafening applause greeted him, showing the audience’s approval for this innovative collection, Chanel style.
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