by Olivia Ghantous
This week, Chanel unveiled its latest Métiers d'Art collection at Hangzou’s magnificent West Lake. The location captured the essence of Gabrielle Chanel’s admiration for the Chinese Coromandel screens that adorned the walls of her Paris apartment. Inspired by the vibrant floral motifs and colors of the lacquered screens, the collection featured delicate embroidery in jade, pink, and blue. While Coco never visited Hangzhou, she was captivated by the lake’s beauty and drew much inspiration it. A century later, the 2025 Métiers d'Art show brought this etheral dreamscape to life, blending French craftsmanship with Chinese heritage in an unforgettable setting.
To get a glimpse into Chanel’s take on China, we enlisted, Photographer Diana Bartlett to document her trip to Hangzhou and Métiers d'Art experience. From local style inspo to acupuncture (accompanied by a flap bag) to the stunning details of the Métiers collection shimmering across the West Lake runway, Diana captured her trip in every intimate detail.
Here's a look through her travel diary: