Goodness, Gracious, Chanel!

Karl Lagerfeld unveiled the Spring Couture '09 collection for Chanel this past week, and clearly the worldwide economic slump was on his mind. Said to be influenced by a "white page", the line proved to be a departure from the wild colors, patterns, and bling that have become a standard for Lagerfeld's Chanel collections. Contrastingly, the Spring '09 designs have been simplified to a basic black-and-white. With such a somber color palate, the "bling" of the collection was all in the details this time around...


Reverting back to the suited classics that Chanel is famous for, Lagerfeld put a new, futura-esque spin on the basics. With squared off shoulders and black detailing, separates were accented by iconic, black buttons and waist-cinching, sequined bow details. Eyelet detailing was a common feature on most of the simpler frocks in the collection, and tunic tops were often paired with slim, straight legged slacks. The more dramatic gowns and pieces featured intricate blossom detailing, layers of tulle, beading, and black-and-white floral prints

The collection was accented by simple black and white-ribboned platform pumps. Netted cut-off gloves in black and white popped up every now and then and showcased white, short nails. The most flamboyant touch was definitely the ornate, floral flower headreses. Some attached to headbands, some circling the full noggin, the carefully sculpted pieces were made from paper (dope, right?! Definitely keeping with the theme...) designed exclusively for the collection by famed Japanese hairstylist Katsuya Kamo.

I loved this collection. Karl has shown that basics can be beautiful. It gives a positive message to us broke fashionistas out there that if the shitty economy is holding us back from going big, just add some accessories and you'll stay fly! View the collection in its entirety here.

(Thanks to MissCrew for info/images!)