PHOTO COURTESY OF CHANEL
While ready-to-wear often sets the tone of annual #CHANELCruise collections, the accessories truly steal the spotlight. In particular, the ingenious minaudières that capture the collection’s playful spirit. These miniature objets d’art act as sartorial punctuation marks, transforming Chanel’s familiar codes into creations of pure, desirable fantasy.
PHOTO COURTESY OF CHANEL
At the heart of the collection sit two designs honouring one of the maison’s most enduring motifs, the pearl. From afar, the magnificent Pearl Necklace Minaudière appears to be an oversized strand of pearls. But upon closer inspection, the largest pearl opens to reveal a hidden compartment. Through this clever play on scale, Chanel elevates jewellery into a functional, head-turning evening bag.
Meanwhile, the Pearl Ring Minaudière continues the #CHANELCruise narrative with equal charm. It takes the form of a gold-tone ring crowned with a majestic pearly-white sphere. More than a beautiful accessory, the ‘pearl’ opens via the CC clasp. Inside, a leather-lined interior will neatly house several beauty essentials and small bits and bobs.
Beyond pearls, the collection leans fully into the joys of novelty with another two statement-making pieces. Firstly, the Sphere Minaudière recalls a shimmering disco ball, covered in a mosaic of multicolour diamanté. Imitation pearls and crystals further amplify its sparkle, reflecting light and the high-octane glamour of a celebratory evening.
Finally, the Ice-Cream Minaudière serves up pure whimsy. Shaped like a swirling delectable treat, its cup bears the words ‘Café Coco’. With a minaudière that encapsulates the holiday spirit to a T, Chanel reminds us that fashion thrives on indulgence. Another iteration adds coloured scoops and a cherry on top. Dripping with extra crystals, it perfectly captures the carefree joy of #CHANELCruise.
