Embrace the Power
Chanel breaks free from traditional motifs with the stunning and empowering Les Talismans de Chanel high jewellery collection, writes Yanni Tan
Photography
RICKY LO
Stylist
JOLENE LIN
espite its relatively recent incorporation in 1993, Chanel’s Fine Jewellery division has made an incredibly strong showing with collection upon collection of memorably breathtaking jewels. Stealing our hearts were icons dear to the maison, from the lion to the camellia and the comet, to the bows and the feathers, interpreted vividly and ingeniously into masterpieces dripping with precious stones and pearls. The past few collections were decidedly figurative and aesthetically captivating, drawing on imagery intimately associated with Gabrielle “Coco” Chanel’s life. As surprising as it is charming, Les Talismans de Chanel is a significant departure from its previous high jewellery presentations. While still inspired by the maison’s founder, it channels her spirit, her ardent belief in the protective powers of symbols, and the metaphysical world. With 50 pieces of bewitching jewels whose magnetic and solar energies protect and empower the wearer, this collection speaks to the strong modern woman who takes charge of her own destiny and life journey. For the maison, there has never been a better time to break away from traditional motifs of flora, fauna and couture; and put the emphasis on something abstract yet inclusive to all ladies, such as inner strength and positivity. Behind Les Talismans de Chanel is total creativity and liberty of design, with the leitmotif of the collection being the quatrefoil pattern—everything converges irresistibly at the centre of each jewellery piece, creating a concentration of energy. Fans of the Coco Chanel aesthetic will detect Renaissance and Byzantine influences signature to the maison, but it is remarkable that the collection was conceived on a blank slate. Hair
SEIFERT CHEUNG
Make-up
KAREN YIU
Designs are executed with hypnotically lustrous gems to invoke an enigmatic, explicable allure. In particular, the featured stones are white and yellow brown diamonds; a multicoloured palette of sapphires; Japanese cultured pearls; blue-violet tanzanites; red spinels; and orange and yellow topazes. In terms of craftsmanship, several key metiers d’art are highlighted in this collection. The traditional artisanal techniques, performed by Chanel’s master craftsmen in the ateliers of Paris, include embossing, lacquering and gemstone setting. Three types of ancestral enamelling were also used: grisaille enamelling to create a 3D grey effect; paillonne enamelling whereby translucent, coloured enamel is applied over gold to produce brilliant colours; and cloisonne enamelling, which uses gold filaments to outline a design whose cells are then painted into. All these creative elements combine to impart Les Talismans de Chanel jewels a mysterious aura that is warm and inviting. Each creation also exhibits a distinctive lightness and suppleness that Chanel has come to be known for. Showpieces are the elaborate Envoûtante diamond necklace and earrings; the Mystérieuse suite of jewels that contrasts black lacquer work with rock crystal cabochons; the Charismatique bracelet with its mesmerising pink and purple gems; the Fascinante series of blue-grey grisaille enamelled motifs; and the Attirante brooch adorned with yellow sapphires, pear-cut orange topazes and a central red spinel. 01-04 Ngee Ann City, tel: 6296 7588