Chanel Fall/Winter 2012 Show Grand Palais, Paris. July 4.
It is amazing that so many different varieties of greys and plaids, appeared in Chanel’s Fall/Winter 2012 show. Large and small tweed patterns, and quite a bit of texture woven into the designs; even shiny metallics to provide contrast, and the pink a bit of warmth. 
There is only so much one can take, of greys, and plaids, though, no matter the designer. 
These fabrics and textures tend to add bulk, especially the large plaid patterns with heavy fibers. Ordinary women who are not tall, svelt supermodels, might find themselves lost in a froth of grey fluff, puffed to the gills with belts and big buttons…And the kaftan length coats seemed a bit like long bathrobes, others had the feeling of quilted blankets.
But several of the shorter coats with petite patterns did seem more practical and conventional for everyday wear.
And I did especially like the fluidity of one lighter, metallic pink shawl wrap coat, and this would also make nice evening wear.
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As I mentioned previously, this particular show seemed to have a retrospective feel, reverting to some of the classic Chanel shapes — short, boxy jackets with militaristic lines and austere severity, despite the fluffy textures and color pink. Coco Chanel might have been flattered, but some of the styles of the 50’s don’t seem to be appropriate on the modern woman, in my opinion.
However, there were several cocktail dresses that appealed to me, having qualities completely at odds with Chanel’s classic look, with its severe lines. I found particularly humorous, one dress that looked like the slip of a 40’s fan dancer, with its fringe and lacey look, straight out of a bordello.
However the input of sateen and lame’ fabrics added smooth fluidity and femininity to the lineup, and several skirt designs featured long length with flared bottoms, creating a particularly non-traditional Chanel silhouette which I found very flattering and attractive. These cocktail dresses, still in muted classic coloration, were among my favorites. There were several pieces which pushed the boundaries of good taste, 
one in particular being a kaftan in cream with metallic sheen, and hot pink dipped edges which pushed my buttons… But the several I did like, have erased the memory of that particular shocker from my mind, lol.
That being said, I did like the use of a new type of fingerless elbow length glove, which covered the arms below princess sleeves. And I especially like the plunging tuxedo bow topping the form-fitting sateen cocktail dresses. In addition to the flared skirts, the elegance of these pieces was classic and timeless, and restored my faith in the appeal of Chanel. Bravo!
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Star in the Stone 