Karl Lagerfeld is known to be one of fashion's most irreverent characters- the economy certainly is no match for his soulless stare and bottomless budget.
So that's why Lagerfeld, in suit with his previous resort shows (poolside? planeside? anyone?), pulled out all the stops and staged a 1930's style cane furniture-and-cabana runway show on the shores of the Lido in Venice, a favorite vacation spot for Coco.
So far did KL go to make sure the show was absolutely perfect, he had 10 tons of sand flown in to completely level out his chosen stretch of beach.
As for the runway itself, it was a perfect synthesis of classically nautical with a gilded Venetian accent. After a stunning opener of chic black bathing suits flanked by dramatic black capes and tricorn hats, the showing was a smooth transition from broad sailor stripes paired with high waisted trousers, cropped navy blazers, and flowing ankle skirts to crisp evening wear in black and gold with gilded rococo motifs. Sheer overlays in lace and chiffon seemed to abound as well, as well as tweed, which will make the transition from Fall/Winter to Resort a seamless one for any devoted Chanelossieur.
those capes.... amadeus anyone?