As Major Patron of the Paris Opera, the House of CHANEL has been supporting the dance season Opening Gala since 2018. This year it was held on 1st October. For the occasion, the ballet Word for Word by My’Kal Stromile was performed by five dancers. The étoiles Valentine Colasante, Hannah O’Neill and Guillaume Diop, the principal dancer Jack Gasztowtt and the coryphée Rubens Simon wore stage costumes that were born from a dialogue between CHANEL and the Opéra national de Paris.
In this way the House continues to extend its historic connections with the dance world, initiated by Gabrielle Chanel over a century ago, while reaffirming its support for all activities at the Paris Opera.
Costumes for the ballet Word for Word, created by the House of CHANEL
The costumes for the ballet Word for Word, born from a dialogue between CHANEL and the Opéra national de Paris, were imagined as an encounter between the world of ballet and the codes of the House. Reminiscent of the flocked fabrics so dear to Gabrielle Chanel, an embossed silk jacquard was developed specially for this performance. It features discreet camellia, double C and chain motifs that give it texture and relief, playing with the light. My’Kal Stromile chose black for the male dancers and a delicate shade of pink for the female dancers. The contrasting costumes form an integral part of the choreography.
Like a reinterpretation of the CHANEL jacket, the men’s costume consist of a high-necked waistcoat worn over tights and embellished with braid giving the illusion of pockets; the women’s costume is a tulle tutu swathed in a layer of very diaphanous satin organza. Their precise lines are highlighted with braid woven by the dedicated atelier at 31 rue Cambon – which produces all the braid for the House’s Haute Couture collections. Openwork gold jewelled buttons adorn the front of the men’s outfits and the back of the women’s, adding the ultimate touch of light.
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