Manila, Philippines — Vintage Chanel has undeniably taken the fashion world by storm this year, making a grand entrance on both the prestigious Met Gala red carpet and the silver screen. First, at the Met Gala, a dazzling array of stars donned exquisite pieces from the iconic French fashion house’s archives as a tribute to the late Karl Lagerfeld. Now, with the release of Greta Gerwig’s highly anticipated Barbie movie, we get to witness more cherished treasures from the Chanel vaults coming to life in the magical world of cinema.
In this summer blockbuster, fashion takes center stage as Margot Robbie gracefully steps into the role of the beloved Mattel doll, Barbie. Considering Robbie’s longstanding association with Chanel, it’s only fitting that the brand would take on a prominent role in the film. Jacqueline Durran, the brilliant costume designer, shared with Vogue, “If Margot wears anything that we didn’t make, it’s pretty much [all] Chanel.” Durran further praised Chanel’s unwavering support for cinema and their eagerness to help curate looks that seamlessly fit into the movie’s storyline. The fashion house’s generous cooperation in providing a myriad of options proved invaluable in bringing the character to life with authenticity and elegance.
Robbie’s Barbie character graces the screen in a resplendent lavender tweed skirt suit from Chanel’s iconic spring 1995 collection. But that’s not all; a statement-making diamond and gemstone necklace adorned with pearl pear drops and the interlocking Cs make a striking appearance as well. This exquisite necklace from the 1995 runway adds a touch of timeless glamour to the film, elevating the allure of the character.
Continuing their tribute to Chanel’s illustrious history, the movie showcases other archival treasures from the same collection. Robbie’s Barbie effortlessly flaunts a delicate pink vanity case from 1995, a whimsical blue camellia-print bag from spring 1997, and a chic pink tweed skirt suit from autumn/winter 2014. These iconic pieces evoke a sense of nostalgia, delighting vintage fashion enthusiasts and adding an extra layer of sophistication to the movie.
Durran’s attention to detail shines as she seamlessly blends true vintage pieces with expertly recreated archival designs. Any Chanel item that wasn’t a perfect fit for the scenes but too spectacular to be left out was meticulously recreated to preserve the movie’s aesthetic and authenticity.
The Barbie movie’s ode to vintage Chanel is a testament to the enduring legacy of the French fashion house. It showcases the timeless allure of Chanel’s creations, as they gracefully transcend time and continue to captivate audiences across generations. As we revel in the sartorial splendor of the film, we are reminded of the transformative power of fashion and its ability to tell stories that resonate with our hearts and souls. With Margot Robbie’s Barbie carrying the torch, vintage Chanel once again reigns supreme on the big screen, inspiring fashion enthusiasts and invoking a renewed appreciation for the beauty and artistry of the past.