Austria has always held a special place in my heart, not only for the reason that it’s the scene to my (undoubtably yours too) musical education (and knowing that doe is a female deer before learning what a deer is), but because it also happens to be where my family started our European abode back in 1989 before putting down our roots in Warsaw.
Coincidentally, it transpires that Chanel too has a vital link in Austria, more specifically, at the Mittersill hotel near Salzburg where Coco Chanel noticed the lift-boy’s uniform during her stay, a detail that later inspired the shape of the neat boxy shape of the now time-honoured classic, the Chanel tweed jacket.
The 11th Metiers d’Art collection showed at the lakeside Leopoldskron castle in Salzburg, back one frosty day back in December – blessed by the quirk and humour of Lagerfeld and a small army of expert hands from the label’s network of 11 artisan houses including Lesage, Desrues, Lamarie, Michel… et al. Technically, the collection boasts a level of meticulous craftsmanship that could be mistaken as couture, although in theory perhaps shy by one denim lederhosen and a nod towards dirndls.
So, it’s a huge pleasure to re-live Austria, albeit only through photos and found paintings, accompanied by shoes and accessories from the Chanel Metiers d’Art Paris-Salzburg 14/15 collection. Here’s a playful rendition that include some of my own childhood memories.
Art Direction & Graphic Design: Shini Park
Red alpaca tweed long coat, cashmere socks, grey felt ankle boots – Chanel. Skirt – my own.
– Karl Lagerfeld on Coco Chanel taking inspiration in everyday details
View the Collection
Shown in Schloss Leopoldskron, Salzburg – an 18th century rococo castle, now a hotel but formerly private residence of the Prince Arch Bishop of Salzburg – the collection is an ultimate showcase for the Chanel workshops: primarily Lesage – the embroidery house, and Lemarie – the flower and feather specialists…
Sweater – My own. Cashmere skirt & felt bag – Chanel
The Chanel Metiers d’Art collection is now in select boutiques globally.
