From Stage To Runway: Chanel’s Spring Summer 2024 Ballet-Inspired Haute Couture Collection

For their Spring Summer 2024 Haute Couture collection, Virginie Viard, the creative director of Chanel, highlighted the profound significance of the world of ballet and dance for Chanel. Reflecting on Gabrielle Chanel’s legacy in designing for ballet 100 years ago, Viard’s decision to draw inspiration from this realm for the collection was a declaration of the brand’s enduring connection to the arts.

In her show notes, Viard expressed, “I often think about dance; it’s an important theme at Chanel. The House is closely linked to its institutions, its choreographers, and dancers, and we create costumes for the ballet.”

In addition to the enchanting world of dance, Chanel found inspiration in the most unexpected of objects: the button. Respected as a jewel and symbol of liberation for the house, “The Button” was a short film released before the show, exploring the theme of “Beauty within the imperfections of time.”

Gracefully stepping onto the runway beneath a giant button adorned with the Chanel logo, the show opened with actress and former dancer Margaret Qualley, who featured in the short film. Clad in a tweed jacket and a white skirt with a delicate overlay of tulle, we could begin to see Viard’s ethereal vision for the collection.

Models glided across the runway in white ballet leotards and tights, echoing the elegance of the ballerinas who inspired the collection. They showcased an array of long dresses, short skirts, sheer overlays, jumpsuits, lace, tulle, floral patterns, sequin embellishments, and bows. The initial looks featured a pristine white palette, gradually transitioning into a soft pastel spectrum of pink, purple, blue, and green.

While some styling elements may appear distracting for some looks, the true beauty lies in the meticulous craftsmanship and attention to detail. From the lace jumpsuit with floral detailing to the black overcoat embellished with a row of jewel-like buttons over a white bubble skirt. Together with a pink and peach dress adorned with feather and flower embellishments, paired elegantly with a boa.

Overall, the collection exuded lightness, softness, and playfulness, capturing the graceful essence of ballet through its vibrant colours and intricate details.

Image Credit: Chanel