There was a distinctly religious feel to Karl Lagerfeld's latest collection, which was shown in Paris on Tuesday. But the inimitable designer also added an irreverent twist to his new range for Chanel, which included skin-tight "stiletto jeans" and abbess-style gowns.
The highlight of the show was a ruffled wedding gown, with cutaway skirt and bo-peep style bonnet. Supermodel Linda Evangelista came out of retirement to show the outfit, as pop stars Kylie Minogue and Vanessa Paradis looked on. "The couture makes you dream. Austere glamour – I loved it," enthused Kylie.
And the gothic feel was omnipresent as models strode down the runway in high-collars, knee-length tunic dresses and ermine trims. A generous supply of lace, along with gauntlet gloves and jewelled cuffs, added to the baroque flavour. The medieval theme was completed with metallic eye make-up and severe hairstyles.
Karl's choice of venue could not have been more fitting – the 17th-century Abbaye de Port Royal on the outskirts of the French capital. The dark cloisters' stone columns and high arches made the perfect backdrop to Chanel's celebration of gothic couture.
Photo: © Alphapress.com
Photo: © Alphapress.com
