On a memorable Wednesday evening at the Sherry-Netherland Hotel on Fifth Avenue, Sofia Coppola, the acclaimed writer and director, gathered with family, close friends, and notable collaborators to unveil her latest work, Chanel Haute Couture. This exquisite book serves as a tribute to the legendary fashion house and set the stage for an evening filled with nostalgia, glamour, and meaningful connections.
The Glamorous Setting
As guests arrived at the intimate and dimly lit Doubles Club, the atmosphere buzzed with anticipation. The venue was adorned with copies of Coppola’s latest book, each featuring a stunning gold cover that shimmered in the soft lighting. Russian supermodel Sasha Pivovarova, a familiar face on the Chanel runway, was seen engrossed in the oversized monograph, captivated by its rich visual history. These moments highlight the beautiful intersection of fashion and storytelling.
“The book wasn’t supposed to be this big,” Coppola remarked, her gold lace Chanel dress reflecting the tome’s opulence. “But it kept growing and growing.” This candid admission underscores the passion and dedication that went into curating nearly 500 pages detailing Chanel’s evolution, from its origins with Gabrielle Chanel to the iconic creations of Karl Lagerfeld and Virginie Viard. Each page offers a glimpse into a world that has significantly shaped the fashion landscape.
A Journey Through Fashion and Memory
Reflecting on her own journey, Coppola recounted her first days in Paris as a 15-year-old intern at Chanel. This experience, initially marked by nerves and excitement, blossomed into a collaborative relationship spanning decades. From being photographed by Lagerfeld to designing Priscilla Presley’s wedding dress in her latest film, Priscilla, Coppola’s bond with the brand has only strengthened over time.
“I remember getting hand-me-downs from my mom’s friend, and I was so thrilled,” she shared, invoking cherished memories. The evening at the Doubles Club felt like a full-circle moment, as Coppola celebrated not only the launch of her book but also the journey that brought her to this milestone.
Family and Friends Unite
As the evening progressed, the warmth of family was palpable. Coppola was accompanied by her husband, Thomas Mars, and their teenage daughters, Romy and Cosima. Their presence amidst a gathering of models and actors highlighted the significance of family in her life. “Sometimes my Chanel pieces just migrate into my daughter’s room,” she joked, capturing the playful chaos of motherhood.
The event blended celebrity presence with personal connections, as fellow mother-daughter duo Karen Elson and Scarlett White mingled nearby. A sense of community prevailed, with Coppola’s daughters engaging with other young stars in a scene reminiscent of her films—whimsical and heartwarming.
As the night drew to a close, Bill Murray, a familiar figure in Coppola’s films, took to the dance floor, creating a magical moment akin to a father-daughter dance. Surrounded by laughter and the infectious energy of the night, Coppola’s circle celebrated joyfully, dancing to an eclectic mix of tunes that resonated throughout the club.
Despite reveling in this well-deserved celebration, Coppola’s gaze was already directed towards her next book project, hinting at more creativity and excitement in the coming year. “We’re going to do two a year,” she expressed, clearly enthusiastic about the journey ahead. This evokes a sense of inspiration! Who else is eager to see what she will create next?
