Couture season is upon us and, of course, this site would never miss a chance to feature some CHANEL Haute Couture amazingness. Skipping the usual frills, CHANEL Haute Couture Fall 2016 collection was presented in a pared down setting made up to look like an actual atelier, with petites mains working away in the background. Karl Lagerfeld wanted to pay tribute to the people behind the magical couture creations by dedicating this show and collection to them.

While couture is certainly not the biggest influencer of mainstream trends, this collection seemed to proclaim the return of the strong shoulder. From boxy tweed suits to exquisite evening gowns, strong shoulders dominated CHANEL Haute Couture Fall 2016. Perhaps because of all the off-the-shoulder looks as of late, seeing more structure felt fresh and exciting.

I probably don’t have to mention how exquisite the gowns are – all you need to do is look at the detail shots. Evening silhouette was inspired by the work of English illustrator Aubrey Beardsley. Using a variety of fabrics and embellisments like radzimir, ziberline, mikado, taffeta, faille, chiffon, crêpe georgette, organza, silk tulle, embroidered laces, almost transparent grosgrains, stones, matt sequins, beads and feathers, Karl Lagerfeld has once again presented art on the runway. Many of the looks placed a lot of emphasis on the back of the garment as well as the front – this way you turn heads coming and going…that is if you can afford CHANEL couture, of course.

Willow Smith (aka coolest 15 year old) sat front row with her famous father Will Smith, and I couldn’t help but think of her when I saw the sequinned top and culotte combo from the collection. I won’t be surprised if I see her wearing this look on the red carpet in the near future.

What about you? Did you enjoy CHANEL Haute Couture Fall 2016? Share your fave looks in the comments.

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