Chanel’s Métiers d’art 2020/2021 is inspired by the Château de Chenonceau, better known as ‘Le Château des Dames’ (Ladies’ Castle), named for its association with prominent women. With powerful femininity as its baseline, this pre-fall collection takes classic silhouettes and gives them an edge in the sophisticated way only Chanel can pull off.

And if there’s ever a time to try out darker looks, it’s fall.

A cropped black leather vest with a lattice design punctuated with flower-shaped studs and pearls,  paired with a matching skirt — this look merges rock and roll with classic elegance. Accessorized with tapered high-heeled black boots with fold-over cuffs and a choker with evenly spaced interlocking C’s, this fall outfit is a step towards the dark side. In its usual effortless style, Chanel is able to make this edgy and almost youthful outfit into a timeless look.

This black and white chequered motif purse is reminiscent of the floor of the grand gallery at the Château de Chenonceau, where the runway show for this collection took place. Evoking the feeling of a life-sized game of checkers, this purse, with leather straps wrapped in a gold chain, is a simple yet sophisticated piece. The darkness of the accessory is offset by a pale tweed suit – a house icon – adorned with a round black button surrounded by tiny gems. The contrasting tones and styles make for a visual interest that will make this look a staple in any fall wardrobe.

Make any outfit shinier and bolder with a chunky dangling necklace adorned with pearls, and bearing the diamond-studded interlocking C in the center. Complete the look with gold chainlink bracelets, also featuring the iconic interlocking C’s and pearl accents. Chanel makes bold jewelry statements by taking classic, elegant pieces and adding extra sparkle, extra style and extra boldness. The influence of Renaissance women and their fashion, which Gabrielle ‘Coco’ Chanel herself greatly admired, is particularly pronounced in these accessories.