Tatler+ Chanel
Of all the world’s many stellar high jewellery house locations, there are but a few as revered as 18 Place Vendôme, the heart of Chanel High Jewellery
It goes without saying that Gabrielle Chanel’s Parisian vigour, and affection for the City of Light, stems from her love for the iconic Place Vendôme. Having resided in suite 302 at The Ritz in the grandiose square for more than 30 years, it has undoubtedly inspired much of Chanel's creations: the iconic shape of the Chanel N°5 perfume bottle, as well as the face shape of the fashion house's Première watches. It was so significant to her in fact, that Chanel High Jewellery found its permanent location at 18 Place Vendôme.
Home to the most glamorous things imaginable, the atelier has showcased many a captivating jewellery line that mirrors Gabrielle Chanel’s swank and spirit. On this imaginary journey, guests are invited to look into the very core of Chanel High Jewellery, through the maison’s recent high jewellery collections, that show off their distinctiveness and artisanship; true testaments to how emotional value is of utmost importance in the world of Chanel.
1.5 - 1 CAMÉLIA. 5 ALLURES
Not far behind Chanel’s epochal CC logo is the iconic camellia blossom. Gabrielle Chanel was drawn to the flower’s stunning simplicity, as its symmetrical petals unfurl in near perfectness. Because of her attraction to it, the flower has been seen brandished on the fashion house’s bags, clothing, shoes, and even jewellery.
The 2019 1.5 collection, with 50 pieces in total, is an ode to the camellia, clearly seen in blooms set in vines of gold, which twinkle alongside diamonds, pearls, rubies, and sapphires. Twenty-two pieces in the collection can be worn in various ways, depending on the wearer’s choice in style; an intentional decision that calls back to Gabrielle Chanel’s personal creativity with the camellia.
Of the objects that adorn her, she has once said, “My (jewels) are flexible and detachable [...] You can take apart the jewellery and use it to match a hat or fur. In this way, the set of jewellery is no longer an immutable object. Life transforms it and bends it to its needs.”