After Karl Lagerfeld’s tragic passing in February, Virginie Viard had large shoes to fill as the successor to the legendary creative’s position as artistic director of Chanel. Having worked directly with the visionary for over 30 years, Viard was determined to keep his legacy of modern elegance alive as she established the next era for the French fashion house. Drawing inspiration from Lagerfeld’s visions as she drafted her first solo designs, Viard proved successful with the presentation of her first individual collection at the Chanel Cruise Show in May. In continuation of her inspired creativity, Viard sent her first ready-to-wear collection down the rooftop runway on the Grand Palais this morning as part of Paris Fashion Week, and proved, yet again, that her artistry reigns supreme. 

Inspired by the atmosphere of the “Nouvelle Vague” and paying tribute to the city of Paris, the Chanel Spring/Summer 2020 collection encapsulates a youthful vibrancy across a warm palette of colors and broad range of textiles. Bright red patterns complimented refined black ensembles across dresses and coats, while soft pinks and blues met essential whites and greys in combinations of skirts above-the-knee, fitted pants, and matching button-downs. An ode to Lagerfeld’s timeless influence, his treasured trio of Gigi Hadid, Luna Bijl, and Grace Elizabeth followed in line, introducing entirely sequinned tops and delicately belted mini shorts. A number of pristine black-and-white looks followed in suit, and spotted amidst was Kaia Gerber bouncing down the runway in a light ruffled top and high-waisted satin skirt. 

The presentation continued in cinematographic perfection, until the models descended the stage for their final walk. As Viard’s collection walked out in unison, a spectator by the name of Marie Benolie, a popular French Youtube personality, abruptly climbed onto the stage and began walking in line with the models. Wearing a matching houndstooth coat and skirt, Benolie intrusively alarmed guests, while models continued to calmly pursue their walk. Not to fret as Gigi Hadid saved the show, leaving her pose centerstage to direct the intruder off the runway herself. 

Despite the disrespectful interruption, Chanel’s Spring/Summer 2020 show concluded in admirable applause. Virginie Viard did not miss a beat with a chic collection of sheer sophistication. Take a look at imagery from the show below.