From Chanel, The Metropolotian Museum of Art, Koda and Bolton, 2005

One of the last collections (if not the last) Coco Chanel released before closing in 1939, was the patriotically colored Tricolor collection.  The gown (a blouse and skirt, actually) above was one of the showpieces and was featured in the July 1, 1939 issue of Vogue.  You probably cannot tell from the photo, but the flowers were actually embroidered onto the fabric, which was cotton organdy, and also embroidered onto the lace.

Yesterday's WWD had an article on Lagerfeld for Chanel's Spring show, which was held in a stage set barn.  That aside, I was so pleased to see that he has reached back into the Chanel archive for inspiration.  The dress below was just one of several that were inspired by the Tricolor collection.  It's probably the most literal translation, but check out the New York Magazine to see the others.

Photo copyright New York Magazine

thanks for sharing this. i saw the images on another blog but didn't notice anything except the clogs - the blogger titled her post around the clogs :P

ttft, go look at the slideshow and notice the accessories. They are all floral bedecked (is that a word?!) Some of the handbags are really cute.