Chanel’s latest high jewellery triumph, the Haute Joaillerie Sport, is a tribute to Gabrielle Chanel‘s sporty allure. This has been a pivotal part of the house’s history since she first established her ‘Sport’ atelier in 1921. Gabrielle Chanel’s impact on women’s fashion was nothing short of revolutionary, particularly in her focus on body awareness and freedom of movement.
From her iconic Breton sailor top in silk jersey to the more athletic attire of the roaring twenties, her women’s clothing, made from fabrics like jersey and tricot, were designed for leisure and sport.
The 80-piece Haute Joaillerie Sport collection is a testament to the brand’s dedication to innovation, fusing refined aesthetics with technical excellence and a remarkable array of gemstones. “This collection is a reflection of Chanel’s sporty style, a significant part of the house’s history: the elegance of the line and the freedom of movement,” shares Patrice Leguéreau, director of the Chanel Jewelry Creation Studio.
A true masterpiece in form and style, the jewellery designs mirror the anatomical reality of the body, much like sportswear. The chevron motifs evoke a sense of rhythm and speed, while the tapered volumes and clean contours infuse a feeling of dynamic energy. Striking lines of colour further enhance this vibrancy, creating a look that is both sophisticated and invigorating.
Reimagining Gabrielle Chanel’s iconic symbols in a sporty context, the collection showcases unique motifs such as the number 5 in a typography reminiscent of those found in chronometers, the lion set in a coat of arms, and the victorious star. The Chanel brand signature makes its debut in the maison’s high jewellery universe as an openwork imprint, adding a distinctive touch of identity to the pieces.
Designed with the modern woman in mind, the jewellery pieces in this collection are not just breathtaking, they are also transformable, modular, and lightweight, intentionally crafted to allow freedom of movement. Some of these items showcase new clasps and quick-release fittings influenced by sports equipment. They seamlessly merge functionality and aesthetics, further highlighting Chanel’s technical prowess. Other notable features include a stunning interpretation of the iconic Chanel quilted motif in a supple gold mesh and a specially developed “sports cord” tube chain.
Necklaces featuring innovative clasps
The use of unconventional materials like aluminium and carbon fibre, paired with precious materials, creates a perfect balance of lightness and durability. Colour also plays a key role in this collection, with Chanel using aluminium and lacquer to expand the colour palette, complementing the hues of the precious stones. The collection showcases a magnificent array of gemstones, including a set of five Kashmir sapphires that took seven years to assemble. The largest measures an eye watering 17.18-ct and is mounted on a ring surrounded by fancy cut diamonds.
By pushing the boundaries of jewellery design, Chanel creates jewellery that is beautiful, functional, and deeply evocative of its storied heritage. This collection is a testament to the timeless appeal of Chanel’s sporty elegance, reimagined for the modern woman.
