A model showcases a design on the runway at the Chanel Cruise show held at the Hong Kong Design Institute on November 5, 2024. Getty Images
Chanel’s Cruise 2024-2025 collection was showcased in Hong Kong on Tuesday, setting the stage for a mesmerizing fashion event. The French brand’s latest designs transported guests to an “underwater reverie” with a beautiful mix of light tweed suits, sleek diving hoods, and airy white dresses. The glamorous show, which took place at the Hong Kong Design Institute (HKDI), attracted a star-studded crowd, including Chanel ambassadors Penélope Cruz, K-pop sensation G-Dragon, and Hong Kong film icons Chow Yun-Fat and Angela Yuen.
The event unfolded in two runway shows, one in the afternoon and one in the evening. The guests, dressed in head-to-toe Chanel, ascended a 197-foot escalator to the upper levels of the HKDI, which provided a dramatic backdrop for the show. The collection, designed by Virginie Viard, featured a wide range of looks. The opening outfit—a light green tweed jacket paired with a skirt—set the tone for the collection. A hooded grey sweatshirt layered underneath gave the ensemble a more casual, relaxed feel, a nod to the collection’s blend of elegance and ease.
The runway featured vibrant, colorful looks, many of which were adorned with sequins that shimmered against the building's striking diagonal white beams. One of the standout moments was the playful incorporation of aquatic themes, including chic white swimsuits accessorized with bold black bows and oversized pearl earrings. Diving hoods, sleek and modern, added to the collection’s underwater-inspired vibe, enhancing the sense of whimsy and sophistication.
The show opens with a light green tweed jacket and skirt, paired with a grey hooded sweatshirt. Getty Images
In addition to the runway shows, Chanel hosted a variety of engaging “activations.” These included a panel discussion, an exhibition featuring the work of HKDI students, and a teaser campaign film. The short film, starring Angela Yuen and French actor Benjamin Voisin, showcased Yuen wearing pieces from the collection against the lively backdrop of Hong Kong.
The Cruise collections, which Chanel regularly unveils, serve as ready-to-wear lines between the major fashion seasons. Traditionally launched to cater to wealthy customers heading to warmer destinations during the winter months, these collections have evolved over time. Chanel’s Cruise shows often capture the essence of luxury with a focus on elegant, travel-friendly fashion. The Cruise 2024-2025 show in Hong Kong marked a special occasion, as it was the brand's first presentation in the city since 2006.
Sleek diving hoods enhance the collection's underwater theme. Getty Images
Chanel's decision to stage this event in Hong Kong, following its original launch in Marseille, highlights its ongoing efforts to connect with its Asian clientele. The luxury brand is making a concerted push to expand in the region, especially in China, where it is working to catch up with competitors like Louis Vuitton, which has significantly more stores in the country. Chanel aims to open more boutiques in China to strengthen its presence.
Some outfits had fish designs, and jewelry featured charms. Getty Images
The collection’s playful touches, including embroidered fish motifs and jewelry with quirky charms, were also featured. These details added a sense of fun and fantasy to the line. Chanel’s Cruise 2024-2025 collection is a testament to the brand’s continued relevance and its ability to blend elegance with creativity. Despite the departure of Viard, who had led the brand for five years, Chanel’s revenue has seen a remarkable rise, a clear indication of its success in maintaining its iconic status in the fashion world.
