Chanel’s Resort Collection Is Ready For Havana Nights

The following feature appears in the December/January 2017 issue of NYLON.

Chanel has always had an uncanny ability to tap into the spirit of the moment. And as the world watches Cuba’s place on the international stage evolve for the first time in decades, it only makes sense that the luxury brand—which pioneered the notion of the destination resort show—would look to the island nation as a source of creative inspiration.

The label’s new cruise collection, which was famously first shown on Paseo del Prado in Havana amid the iconic bronze lion statues and old-school Buicks and Cadillacs, pays homage to Cuba’s soul. Interpretations of the traditional guayabera shirt and breezy cuffed pinstripe trousers meet floaty tiered-organza “debutante dresses” and airy macramé pieces. “Viva Coco Cuba Libre” tees accompany sweet shorts and swimwear, while sandals and brogues are the footwear of choice.

A lush color palette is threaded throughout, mirroring the vibrant facades of the old-town architecture: yellow, pink, orange, turquoise, and bright green (while touches of grayscale are a tribute to the work of celebrated Cuban artist Wifredo Lam).

Retro auto prints and tropical vegetation embroideries also make strong appearances. And everything is topped off with a panama hat or beret. Lively and joyful, elevated-casual and fun, it’s just the collection every NYLON girl dreams of wearing to explore the Caribbean country by day and dance into the night.

Click through the gallery to see the feature. 

All clothing and accessories by Chanel.

Hair: Gianluca Mandelli at Atelier Management using Kérastase.

Makeup: William Murphy at Atelier Management using Diorskin Nude.

Manicurist: Yuko Wada at Atelier Management using Dior Vernis.

Models: Taylor Allard at Ford Models and Alice Vink at Fusion Model Management.

Special thanks to the Mary A. Whalen and PortSide NewYork.