Editor in chief Martina Bonnier shares her front-row musings on Chanel's Marseille showcase for Resort '25
After jetsetting to Monaco and Los Angeles for its most recent Resort collections, this time around, Chanel returned to its homeland and plunged into the distinctive character and culture of Marseille, France's second most populated city. “The sun, architecture, music and dance: Marseille also has a very strong sense of freedom,” said creative director Virginie Viard. “I was inspired by the codes of lifestyle, of everyday life and by all the things that invite movement. The sea and the wind made me want to play with wetsuits,” Viard explains.
Within Le Corbusier’s emblematic Cité Radieuse, Viard expanded the the house's repertoire to incorporate deep sea references – diving hoods with press studs, fish embroideries and subtle netting and shellfish details. Observing from the front row, I felt the sense of effortless femininity, so inherent to Chanel, oozing from the collection. Read on for a closer look at six of my highlights from the Resort '25 line up.
The wetsuit-inspired look
“There is an athletic attitude to the Resort '25 collection, with many of the garments drawing references from the streamlined construction surfing wetsuit. This particular look is so sleek and I love how it's offset with what Viard describes as “scuba tuxedo” shoes.”
The macrame set
“Rendered in a soft grey hue that ran throughout the Resort '25 collection, this set is so elegant but also has a dose of that surf-inspired sportiness that I adore. Note the hood detail at the back too.”
The broderie anglaise summer dresses
“Nothing says summer better than crisp white broderie anglaise, and Viard's use of it for a series of summer dresses is particularly romantic. Exactly what the Chanel woman would pack for a seaside sojourn.”
The crystal floral belt details
“A delicate and feminine touch, these crystal floral belts adorn a number of looks – adding a dose of femininity and subtle nod to the house's emblematic camellia.”
The white swimsuit
“This look was a favourite. Another take from Viard on surf attire, but with the black bow, contrast trim and pearl earrings, it becomes oh so Chanel.”
The white coats
“Chanel's signature tweed jacket has received a memorable update this season in a line-up of white outerwear that feels both modern and timeless. A favourite was this longline wrap-front style, with a just touch of tweed at the lapels, belt and pockets.”