It’s the most talked-about invite of the season, with the guest list so exclusive that plus-ones are almost unheard of. It’s none other than Chanel’s cruise collection 2014/15 presentation, which will be held from 6pm onwards on Tuesday, May 13.
Few details about the show and its after-party have been revealed – Chanel is trying to keep it all a surprise – save for the fact that it will take place on The Island, a new private isle off the coast of Dubai, and that the maison’s creative director Karl Lagerfeld will be hosting.
For the past 13 years, Chanel has toured its cruise (pre-spring/summer) collection around the world – from Paris to New York and Singapore – but this marks the first time the label will show in the UAE.
The venue has been described by the French house as a “megalopolis of the 21st century”, which could hint at a futuristic theme. Yet, in the same breath, Chanel says Dubai is “a crossroads of civilisation between Europe and Asia”, implying there could be a fusion of traditional Arabian silhouettes with Riviera-inspired resort pieces.
One can only speculate. However, the burning question of whether Lagerfeld’s beloved, well-traveled Siamese cat Choupette will be coming with him has now been answered. @ChoupettesDiary confirmed the news to her 36,800 Twitter followers: “Packing my bags for Dubai! #Jetset #Chanel”.
A brief sojourn this May is unlikely to be Choupette and Herr Lagerfeld’s last trip to Dubai. Independently from Chanel, the designer has announced the development of 10 Karl Lagerfeld boutiques across the UAE and 15 in-store spaces by 2018, in a deal with the Dubai-based Chalhoub Group.
So, with Lagerfeld continuing to ride the crest of a fashionable wave, we thought it fitting to forecast what his stylish guests might be wearing to his soirée. Judging by Chanel’s previous private parties in the UAE, quilted bags, pearls and little black jackets will be out in force. For those looking for more inspiration, check out our top picks from Chanel’s latest couture, accessories and cosmetics.
rduane@thenational.ae
What to wear
• Attendees at Chanel’s Dubai show may want to refer to the style guide laid down by the many celebrities who wore the label at last week’s Met Gala – from Kristen Stewart to Chloë Moretz. Our favourites were Vogue’s editor Anna Wintour (wearing Chanel couture) and the singer Lily Allen (in a Chanel autumn 2012 couture gown and Chanel haute joaillerie).
• While Chanel’s fine jewellery might be just beyond the reach of many guests invited on Tuesday, chances are they may be sporting one of the label’s watches. Check out this dress watch from the brand’s latest launch, the Montre Premiere Triple Row, priced at Dh19,800.
• Lace for Gabrielle Chanel was deemed to be “one of the prettiest imitations ever made of natural fantasies”. It was said to remind her of the intricate veining of leaves, the fluidity of tree branches and wispy cloud formations. With this in mind, Chanel recently launched Dentelle Précieuse. If you’re looking for a mirror and compact in one, this highlighter-cum-blush in shades of beige, pink and bronze could be for you. Priced at Dh320, it’s available at Chanel make-up counters and boutiques across the UAE.
