The Show
When heard of a Metiers d’Art show of Karl Lagerfeld in Paris Bombay theme, despite having Paris in the name, one will immediately imagine plenty of sari inspired one shoulder gowns in bright colors teamed with abundance of gold accessories – all in multiple layers. This was a massive underestimation of Lagerfeld who has been known for his extravagant taste and extraordinary imagination. During his years with Chanel he has taken the themed fashion shows to a whole new level. When picking a theme for a show, he was adopting a few elements from it and blending it seamlessly into the idea of the collection. His shows gave a new concept and modernity to many popular themes.
Although Karl Lagerfeld has never been to India, he has taken inspiration from Coco Chanel’s Fifties and Sixties India inspired collections. He has also said that he has taken more inspiration from men’s outfits than women’s in creating this collection – As they are easier to wear. He has also playfully mentioned that it is much more inspiring not to go to places than to go, as it leaves more space for imagination.
The fascinating Paris Bombay Metiers d’Art took place in Grand Palais, which transformed to Maharaja for a night. The show was evolving around a grand feast in traditional Indian style. A Chanel decorated mini steam train travelling along the tables gave a special charm to the event.
Colors
Main color of the collection, to big surprise was white – with plenty of monochromatic looks in white color, blending with the interior of the show. The choice of colors and blending of them was by no accident. The unique craftsmanship skills were demonstrated by the detailed beautiful embroidery, layers and shapes of the sari inspired dresses and shalwar kameez inspired pantsuits.
There were some looks in gold and silver metallic and few fuchsia and red costumes and just one blue gown that brightened up the monochrome whites. The silver golden metallic looks had a little greek vibes to them which only added to the fusion
Indian motives
Although incredibly blended with classic Chanel style and Parisian style, the show had plenty of elements of Indian culture: heavily kohl-rimmed eyes, heavy cuff accessories, high voluminous buns that resembled turbans, head jewels; sari inspired dresses and shalwar kameez looks
The Fusion
The tall messy buns were a tribute to turbans – popular accessory in India, however many models had their buns made of dreads, which added the luxe hippy that was the pinch of Parisian style.
The hand-crafted embellishments were Indian inspired but had the signature of the traditional Chanel
Hand jewels and chockers have made a comeback in this season. Looking back, we can see that hand jewels didn’t quite stick unlike chockers.
The shalwar kameez inspired looks turned out very organic as Lagerfeld loved to use leggings in his collections.
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