The annual Valentine’s Day luncheon sponsored by The Colleagues and Saks Fifth Avenue took on a decidedly new-wave edge with this yearos featured runway collection from Chanel. The Spring 2001 collection on the runway included ladylike dresses in bright graphic prints, athletic-inspired logoed active wear and flirty beach-worthy separates. There were also several examples of the traditional Chanel silhouette—fitted jackets over soft skirts—recast in hot shades of fuchsia, purple and teal. The collection also included denim pieces that borrowed heavily from the ’70s, ’80s and ’90s without sacrificing the Chanel look of luxury. Suits, jeans, dresses and sophisticated separates were accessorized with gold chains, pearls and clutch bags.
The collection overall was warmly received by the assembled guests—although many of them seemed to prefer the more traditional ensembles, such as the fitted suiting jackets over knee-length pleated skirts. And several guests seemed unsettled by the modelsO unkempt coiffures and mesh veils printed with the “Coco” logo in turquoise. The luncheon honored actors Annette Bening and Warren Beatty with the Champion of Children award, presented by former first lady Nancy Reagan.
