In an interview with NY Carib News, Naomi Campbell discusses the nostalgic inspirations behind Chanel’s latest collection, its craftsmanship, and the brand’s commitment to diversity in the fashion industry.
During a recent interview with NY Carib News, iconic supermodel Naomi Campbell reflected on the nostalgic inspirations behind Chanel’s Paris Fashion Week fall presentation, which took place on March 18, 2025, at the historic Grand Palais. Campbell, a longtime ambassador for the fashion house, expressed her enthusiasm for the collection that drew heavily from the renowned aesthetics of the 1990s.
Speaking to NY Carib News, Campbell emphasized the importance of craftsmanship in fashion design. “I love the artisan, the workmanship,” she stated, adding that the design team revisits the brand’s historical essence before infusing contemporary elements into their creations. She specifically noted how this presentation featured silhouettes reminiscent of the ‘90s, commenting, “This show for me had a lot of things that reminded me of the ‘90s, and I loved the silhouettes, the skirt, the jacket, the skirt, and the pants together. Everything was very wearable.”
The collection showcased several standout pieces adorned with translucent silk, including flounced capes that elegantly complemented classic Chanel designs and flowing blouses layered over tailored coats. Tulle overlays also added a unique twist to traditional tweed tailoring, highlighting the brand’s artistic innovation.
Campbell took a moment to pay tribute to her late friend Karl Lagerfeld, who significantly influenced Chanel’s direction during his tenure as creative director. “I really miss his honesty,” she remarked thoughtfully. “He had a soft spot, but he never sugarcoated anything.” Campbell fondly recalled their late-night work sessions, remembering how Lagerfeld’s presence continues to be felt within the brand.
In addition to celebrating the collection, Campbell highlighted Chanel’s ongoing commitment to diversity and representation in the fashion industry. She referenced the appointment of Lupita Nyong’o as a house ambassador, praising Chanel for its pioneering initiative in reaching out to sub-Saharan Africa. “I have such respect for Chanel for being the first luxury brand to go to sub-Saharan Africa, to Dakar, which I got to witness,” she said.
Chanel marked a significant milestone in 2022 by hosting a Métiers d’Art exhibition in Dakar, which was notable as the first major luxury brand display in the region. This event initiated a program for ongoing cultural exchange, reinforcing Chanel’s dedication to cultural engagement by sending craftsmen to Senegal and students from there to Paris. “That, to me, is action,” Campbell expressed proudly. “I’m really proud that I got to witness that in my lifetime in this business.”
Throughout her illustrious career, Campbell has been an advocate for diversity, often speaking out about the discrimination she has faced in the industry, including delayed recognition by major cosmetics firms and inequitable compensation compared to her white counterparts. Reflecting on her past experiences, she stated, “I may be one of the top models in the world, but I in no way make the same money as any of them,” recalling her struggles in 1991.
In response to the ongoing issues of underrepresentation in fashion, Campbell co-founded the Diversity Coalition, aiming to hold the industry accountable for its lack of inclusivity. She remains optimistic about the industry’s evolution, observing, “It appears that times are changing. Slowly but steadily.”
Source: Noah Wire Services
