Virginie Viard’s recent Chanel fashion showcase in Manchester dazzled with a unique blend of gritty street culture and chic sophistication. The collection, held at Thomas Street, celebrated Manchester’s historical cotton trading heritage amidst a fusion of urban flair and royal sophistication, inspired by late Queen Elizabeth’s vibrant color palette.
Amidst the vibrant setting of the 19th-century redbrick houses, the open-air display showcased a fresh, body-hugging silhouette, featuring skirts elegantly cut above the knee. Viard’s collection drew enthusiastic praise from the models and attendees alike, hailed for its fun, fresh, and youthful vibe.
The event’s ambiance, accentuated by an eclectic post-punk soundtrack, resonated well with the audience, featuring famous faces like Kirsten Stewart, Sofia Coppola, Caroline Casiraghi, Tilda Swinton, Laura Bailey, and Hugh Grant. The evening was further accentuated by a dynamic DJ performance, encapsulating the city’s rich music tradition.
Chanel’s homage to Manchester extended beyond the fashion show, as they also hosted guests at a Manchester United vs. Chelsea Premier League match. The brand embraced Manchester’s cultural icons, notably honoring George Best, a legendary Man United player, through visuals by Peter Saville and Coppola.
The collection’s narrative also delved into founder Coco Chanel’s history in the region, drawing inspiration from her association with Eaton Hall and acknowledging the city’s resilience after the 1940 Luftwaffe bombings. Viard incorporated this spirit into her designs, highlighting the fabric Coco discovered at Eaton Hall.
The show culminated in a vibrant post-event concert at Victoria Baths, featuring Primal Scream and a private recital by punk-poet John Cooper Clarke, embodying a fusion of Gallic luxury and the vibrancy of Manchester’s culture. This event showcased the ability of French luxury brands to embrace and rejuvenate foreign cultures under adept design and management, breathing new life into their brand DNA.
