Photo: Karim Sadli
For over a decade now, model and music producer Caroline De Maigret has been part of the Chanel family, representing the iconic fashion house across the globe with special events. Now, the French multi-hyphenate is all set to touch down in Dubai for ‘Chanel, A Journey into the Allure’, which will take place from October 12-22 in the city’s Al Serkal Avenue.
The invite-only event will present to its guests the journey Chanel has embarked on so far, highlighting 40 silhouettes that take one from the maison’s past to its present, all crafted around the stylistic codes of Chanel as expressed by Gabrielle Chanel, Karl Lagerfeld and now, Virginie Viard. Expect to see the trademark Chanel suit, elements of black and white, masculine-meets-feminine cuts, the quintessential little black dress, spellbinding evening gowns, and much more. ‘Chanel, A Journey into the Allure’ will also spotlight some of the fashion house’s most-loved elements, from its emblematic flower, the camellia, which will occupy the centre of the installation. And for serious fashion enthusiasts, there’s no missing De Maigret’s style talk, taking place on October 13.
Days before the Chanel ambassador represents the iconic fashion house in Dubai, she chats with Vogue Arabia about fashion, her special bond with the brand, and much more.
Tell us a little bit about your relationship with Chanel.
Being an ambassador for Chanel has been incredible. It’s an iconic house, full of history. I’m proud to represent them as we share the same values. The time they put into each garment impresses me. They don’t take shortcuts, the way they care about every step of the process by working with the artisans and the métiers d’arts at their best is fascinating. I also admire their support of the arts, in all different forms all around the world. The more I work with them, the more I feel like I am a part of the family, it’s a very special vibe.
You’ll be in Dubai very soon for Chanel, A Journey into the Allure. What are you most excited about?
I’m always excited to discover Chanel exhibitions, they’re always super interesting with new things to learn, thanks to great curating works. This one is going around the world and I haven’t had the chance to see it yet! I relate a lot to the idea of allure. I like the idea of style rather than trends. That’s what my style is about, it’s deeply connected to my personality and who I am.
Is this your first time in Dubai? Are you excited to touch down to one of the world’s most exciting cities?
I’ve come to Dubai a couple of times already for work. Its ultra modern architecture by the water is always very impressive to me, especially at night.
Photo: Karim Sadli
What are a few things you can’t wait to do in Dubai?
I hope I get the chance to visit the Museum of the Future on this trip. I’ve heard a lot about it and I am really looking forward to seeing the works of the architects, technologists and visionary artists there. I wanted to go to the desert, but people have told me it’s too hot right now!
Coming back to Chanel, you have shared an almost decade-long relationship with the fashion house. Aside from style, what’s the biggest life lesson Chanel has been able to teach you?
It’s taught me to keep learning and exploring. To be curious, dig deeper, have the audacity to try new things. Thanks to them, I discovered my love for directing videos.
How would you describe the quintessential Chanel woman?
To me, the Chanel woman is chic, timeless and powerful. There’s poetry in elegance that brings confidence. It doesn’t overshadow your personality, it enhances it, and I love that.
How would you describe the Chanel Allure?
Gabrielle Chanel was avant-garde, she broke the rules by freeing women’s bodies and thus their minds. She wanted to give power to women through their clothes, while keeping them elegant. She was always surrounded by artists and it reflected in her work. The house of Chanel has kept that legacy… it’s timeless and chic. Every collection tells a story, for all kinds of personalities. Allure is about who you are. The way you feed yourself — be it the movies you watch, the books you read, the concerts you go to… It reflects in the way you dress, even unconsciously.
