Chanel Pre-Fall 2011

Art Deco can easily verge on tackiness–but not when it’s Chanel‘s take on the glamorous period. For its annual Metiers d’Art pre-fall show, Karl Lagerfeld turned to the region of Istanbul and deemed his rich collection “Paris-Byzance” after Coco Chanel’s love of exquisite Byzantine-style stonework jewelry.That rich notion translated beautifully into the bags that were recently previewed. I really love the classic 2.55 quilted bags and sister clutches that were adorned, seemingly haphazardly (but we all they weren’t), with stone and jeweled pieces. It definitely makes for a statement piece–but, above that, these bags are also pretty timeless and not one-seasonal. The other classic shape I liked a lot was the elegant geometric patterned 2.55 that featured intricate beading; it’s geared more for, in my opinion, a more mature woman–but it’s undeniably chic. The leather flap bag in mocha, meanwhile, with its leather knots, is a bit too Bottega Veneta-inspired for my liking.