Ahead of the fast-approaching SS19 menswear shows in June, there’s a short womenswear interlude in the form of the 2019 Cruise shows. Kicking off the circuit and eschewing the usual far-flung locations, was Chanel, who once again took over the Grand Palais in Paris. Here’s what went down at the show.

THE SET WAS A GIANT CRUISE SHIP

Over the years, Chanel has transported us all over the world with its mind blowing sets. Most recently, creative director Karl Lagerfeld transformed the Grand Palais into a forest for the house’s AW18 collection. This time, the longstanding venue was the host of a giant cruise ship – entitled La Pausa, after founder Coco Chanel’s summer house – complete with yards of billowing fabric to mimic the sea.

THE COLLECTION WAS A NAUTICAL-THEMED 80S THROWBACK

Following the nautical-tinged Pre-Fall 2018 collection last year, Lagerfeld went fully sea-themed for the Cruise show. From the opening look – a slouchy CC-embroidered sweater, with striped trousers – the collection continued in more of an 80s direction. The 88 looks-strong collection also featured matching vinyl-looking jacket and trouser sets, bright, clashing colours, and leather and denim combos. True Chanel-philes shouldn’t be disappointed though, there was plenty of tweed too.

THERE WERE APPROPRIATELY SEA-THEMED ACCESSORIES

In addition to the sea-faring berets that each model wore – with the exception of the odd wide-brimmed or straw hat – the accompanying accessories were also appropriately seaworthy. Think bags and jewellery made to look like life rings. No word on whether they work as actual flotation devices, but at least you’d still look chic if you were to accidentally go overboard.

CAPTAIN KARL EMERGED FROM THE SHIP TO TAKE HIS BOW

Appearing with Chanel’s fashion studio director, Virginie Viard, Lagerfeld took his bow among the ranks of models, while some Chanel-clad sailors walked beneath. Not camp enough? The Pet Shop Boys’ “Go West” blasted out throughout the finale.

THE POST-SHOW PARTY WAS HELD ON THE CRUISE SHIP

Following the show, guests were invited to board the ship for a party on the top deck. Disco hits played, while attendees – Kristen Stewart and Lily-Rose Depp among them – danced and ate appropriate seafood snacks.