Karl Lagerfeld is the one who always pushes the envelope. Just when you think he has revealed all the tricks he has up his suited sleeve, he wowed us with extraordinary creations that almost come out of nowhere. But for his Pre-Fall 2010 show, the source of inspiration was very obvious. It was Shanghai, China.

Karl brought the whole team to showcase the collection at the famous Shanghai Pudong. Although Fendi had showcased their collection once along the Great Wall, nothing can top off Karl Lagerfeld and the impeccably made garments he sent down the runway.

Each and every garment is special with very specific detailing of Chinese elements. Think of luxurious black silk and leather with pops of lantern-red in the thigh high boots and fingerless gloves. The usual cheongsam got Chanel-ized with some tweed fabrics and cut-outs. The trademarks Chanel roses and quilted technique are seen on leather trench and pants.

Men pieces are mostly created with Chinese military motives in mind like the multiple buttons jackets, the hats and black long coats worn with leather pants. The combination of olive green tweed jackets, hat and metallic pants might look a little bit too lady-like for some people, but it works for Chanel.

But the most interesting look has to be the woven dress accented with some reds on the shoulder. It’s good that people won’t go and immediately say ‘cheongsam’ when they see it. It was only upon closer inspection that the Shanghai- Chinese inspiration gives itself away.

The styling of the show is another element that really gel everything together. The big bouffant hair, elaborate jewelleries like tasselled earrings and necklaces, brooches and bangles captures the Shanghai glamour so well.

If Shanghai, China were to be the inspiration for another designer in the future, they have a lot to live up to.

Photos from style.com

 

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