The Origins of Chanel's Savoir Faire Obsession: Karl's Métiers d'Art Initiative

Today, we uncover the strategic necessity behind Chanel's acquisition of struggling independent firms since 2002, including legendary houses like Lesage (embroidery), Lemarié (feathers and flowers), Desrues (jewelry and buttons), Goossens (jewelry), Massaro (bootmaker), Maison Michel (milliner), and Causse (glovemaker). These firms, grouped under the division appropriately named Paraffection, meaning "Out of Affection," were not just purchases; Chanel needed these ateliers as the means to execute their creative vision.

Discover the birth and evolution of the annual Chanel Métiers d’Art Collections. Initially conceived by Karl Lagerfeld as a way to make the work of the acquired artisans better known, these presentations began in 2002 at 31, rue Cambon, specifically showcasing the skills of houses like Lesage, Lemarié, Massaro, Desrues, and Maison Michel.