This week marked a historic moment in fashion history – CHANEL and Karl Lagerfeld presented the Cruise 2017 collection in Cuba, the day after the first U.S. ship docked in Havana in nearly 40 years! The vibrant collection was shown on Paseo del Prado, the street that divides Old Havana from Centro Habana, and which was redesigned in 1928 by a French landscape architect who placed eight bronze statues of lions (Coco Chanel’s favourite animal and her zodiac sign) at every crossroads of the street.

The collection was probably one of the more relaxed ones I’ve seen from CHANEL in years, with graphic tees (I need one so badly!) tucked into pencil skirts and worn with slides, airy dresses paired with Panama hats, and an abundance of chic denim pieces. The accessories played an homage to Cuba, with a cigar box minaudiere, playful tropical brooches, and a Coco Club (Havana Club stand-in) knapsack. Vintage cars made for a fun all-over print that appeared on several runway garments, all flowy and vibrant.

I’ve been to Havana twice in the past, and loved the look and feel of the old town – pastel buildings, classic cars, live music, friendly locals. And while most Cubans won’t be able to afford any of CHANEL’s garments that were presented in Havana this spring, the attention that this show brought to this beautiful Caribbean country can only mean more tourism and more money flowing into the economy. And that’s a great thing.

What did you think of CHANEL Cuba Cruise Collection? Share your thoughts in the comments.







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