Chanel Cruise 2021/22 has almost arrived, and the House's troupe of loyal models and ambassadors alike gather to celebrate in Dubai.

The 60s steam-punk inspired collection, laden with thigh holstered Chanel pouches, raw finishings and fraying hems, first marched itself down the chalky runway in monochrome silhouettes in may earlier this year. Where silhouettes evoked the simplicity and poetry of Testament of Orpheus. Made in 1959 at the Carrières de Lumières by the poet, draughtsman, playwright and filmmaker Jean Cocteau, who was friends with Gabrielle Chanel. The atmosphere of the film inspired Virginie Viard to create something purposeful and minimal with nods to monochromatic punk rock.

Now, it is seen again in Dubai, where ivory fabric was draped amongst the shadows, cascading with projections of olive branches, alluding to the shows initial staging at the Carrières de Lumières in the village of Les Baux-de-Provence, in the South of France.

It is mostly a black and white collection, injected with whispers of colour. Feather trims are dipped in rich royal purple, while pastel pinks are woven through signature tweed suiting. Accessories are offered up with an exciting air of modernity, with clip-in choppy mullets, lip rings and suspenders layered over fishnets and graphic t-shirts.

 

The Dubai show was an ushering in of the new collection. A reminder that Viard is here to make her subtle, yet strong mark on the brand she is now at the helm of.

Afterwards, it was time to party. Guests and models alike were then invited to a setting with a refined atmosphere for a party hosted by DJs Wladimir Schall, Soo Joo Park and Kungs, before discovering a surprise performance by John Legend, joined on the piano by Faouzia.

The CHANEL Cruise 2021/22 collection will be available in boutiques from November 3rd 2021 in the Middle East and from November 9th in the rest of the world.