The CHANEL Cruise 2024/25 show took place in a magnificent setting that perfectly captured the essence of the brand: timeless luxury, bold creativity, and undeniable elegance. As always, the Cruise collection offered a refreshing glimpse into the future of fashion, while paying homage to CHANEL’s rich heritage. The grand event took place on May 9, 2024, and set the stage for a sartorial journey that blended innovation with classic French chic.
Setting the Scene: A Vision of the Mediterranean
For the Cruise 2024/25 collection, the house of CHANEL chose an iconic Mediterranean backdrop—Monaco, a city synonymous with glamour and sophistication. Held in the stunning Espace Fontvieille, the venue was transformed into an immersive environment that reflected the themes of the collection.
The audience was greeted with a lavish setting, complete with soft, golden hues, and subtle nautical references. Large sculptures, intricate stage designs, and carefully selected pieces of art set a tone that was both relaxed and opulent. The environment encapsulated the spirit of the collection, embodying the chic, sun-soaked, and high-energy vibes of the Mediterranean coastline, effortlessly pairing elegance with a free-spirited attitude.
A Celebration of CHANEL’s Legacy
The Cruise collection has always been about sophistication with an air of effortless, carefree luxury—qualities that the brand, under the creative direction of Virginie Viard, has successfully continued to weave into its DNA. Viard, who succeeded the legendary Karl Lagerfeld, has brought her distinct vision to the house, focusing on making CHANEL both relevant and forward-thinking while still honoring its rich history.
In this collection, Viard once again leaned into the idea of casual glamour, mixing classic CHANEL codes with fresh, modern takes that felt suitable for both the jet-setting lifestyle and everyday luxury. From tailored suits to flowing silhouettes, each piece conveyed an understated but impactful aesthetic that only CHANEL could pull off.
Key Looks: Nautical Meets Haute Couture
The Cruise 2024/25 collection was a tribute to the spirit of travel, with influences drawn from the sun, sea, and sand. Nautical elements were a recurring theme throughout the show, but they were reinterpreted in the chicest possible way. Think striped Breton tops paired with tailored tweed jackets, sailor pants upgraded to high fashion, and trench coats with modern, asymmetrical cuts.
One of the standout pieces was a shimmering silver gown adorned with intricate beading that seemed to capture the light like the surface of the ocean at sunset. In contrast, casual looks featured beachy, flowing dresses in soft pastels and jumpsuits with chic details, showcasing the versatility of the collection. There was an unmistakable homage to Coco Chanel’s love of the seaside—she was known for retreating to the French Riviera, and the collection reflected that love of both comfort and style.
But this wasn’t just about nautical references; it was also a nod to the “effortless French Riviera style”—sharp, tailored jackets paired with wide-legged trousers, and simple yet impactful accessories. Classic pearls, double-C logos, and camellia flowers remained essential elements, but they were incorporated in unexpected ways, such as camellia brooches on oversized sunglasses or as embellishments on bags.
The Accessories: A Statement in Their Own Right
Accessories in the CHANEL Cruise 2024/25 collection were nothing short of spectacular. Viard’s mastery over statement accessories was evident throughout the show. The bags—timeless in shape but modern in design—featured both classic quilted leather and shiny metallic finishes, often with oversized chains that gave the bags a rebellious edge.
Footwear was equally attention-grabbing: ankle boots with sculptural heels paired with dresses, and espadrilles elevated with CHANEL’s signature design aesthetics. Bold jewelry added a touch of glamour, with choker necklaces layered with delicate chains and earrings that made a subtle yet strong statement.
Sustainability and Ethical Design: A Step Towards the Future
As the fashion industry grapples with its environmental impact, CHANEL has quietly and consistently incorporated more sustainable practices into its collections. For the Cruise 2024/25 show, recycled materials were incorporated into some garments, and the collection made use of eco-friendly fabrics like organic cotton and silk.
While CHANEL is known for its commitment to craftsmanship and tradition, the brand is increasingly aligning itself with modern values. This collection showcased the balance between luxury and sustainability, highlighting CHANEL’s dedication to both quality and environmental responsibility.
A New Era of CHANEL: Virginie Viard’s Vision Continues
The CHANEL Cruise 2024/25 collection marks a significant moment in Virginie Viard’s tenure as the house’s creative director. While Lagerfeld’s legacy looms large, Viard has expertly shaped the brand’s evolution by drawing upon the core principles of the house while simultaneously infusing her personal sensibilities.
This show reaffirmed her belief in fashion as an expression of freedom, embracing the idea that luxury should feel accessible and unpretentious. The models that walked the runway embodied a sense of confidence, each showcasing an individual look that felt personal yet undeniably CHANEL. Viard’s mastery of tailoring, attention to detail, and appreciation for natural beauty were fully on display, cementing her position as one of the industry’s leading creative forces.
The Takeaway: Timeless and Effortless Glamour
The CHANEL Cruise 2024/25 collection was a perfect example of how a legacy brand can remain modern, fresh, and influential. With its elegant silhouettes, bold accessories, and the consistent presence of CHANEL’s timeless signatures, the show reaffirmed the house’s place as a leader in the global fashion scene. It’s a celebration of sun-drenched sophistication, of luxury that’s both effortless and innovative, and a glimpse into the future of fashion—a future that’s as forward-thinking as it is firmly grounded in history.
For CHANEL, the Cruise show was more than just a display of clothing—it was a reflection of the brand’s ability to evolve while staying true to its roots. As we await the next chapter, one thing is certain: the CHANEL Cruise 2024/25 collection will go down in history as a beautiful manifestation of the spirit of travel, luxury, and timeless style.
