Create the ultimate Parisian closet with Chloé Signatures
Elegant, effortless and suitably insouciant, so-called ‘French’ style is applauded and aspired to by women the world over. Now, thanks to the iconic Parisian label Chloé and its classic design, Chloé Signatures, it’s easier than ever to inject your own closet with a little je ne sais quoi
It’s the deceptive simplicity of Parisian style that makes it, on the one hand, so enduring and alluring, but on the other, so difficult to emulate. Hence our unbridled excitement on learning that storied French fashion house Chloé had created a special range of Chloé Signatures – exquisitely crafted, classic pieces that combine to make the ultimate French-girl closet. It’s no mean feat, but if there’s one label capable of capturing the essence of Parisian style, it’s Chloé.
Founded in 1950s Paris by designer Gaby Aghion – who rejected the frou-frou fashions of the day – the maison was built on Aghion’s idea that truly great design could offer women unparalleled freedom of expression. This is a sentiment similarly embraced by the brand’s current creative director, Natacha Ramsay-Levi, who has been at the helm since 2017. In fact, Ramsay-Levi is vocal about how, far from seeking to ‘impose a look’ through each of her collections, she wants women to interpret her designs through the lens of their own life: “I want to create fashion that enhances the personality of the woman who wears it,” she says. It’s this instinctive approach that sets Chloé apart; it is a fashion powerhouse led by a woman designing for women. Ramsay-Levi knows what modern women want from their clothes, which is quality, comfort, versatility and, of course, excitement. Hence her design masterstroke, Chloé Signatures’, which combine to create a dream closet firmly rooted in the demands of everyday life.
Take Chloé’s contemporary and utterly covetable interpretation of the trench coat, arguably the Parisian piece par excellence. Not only is it an effortless way to elevate blue jeans and penny loafers, thanks to the smart double-breasted finish and the vintage-inspired silk lining – wear your sleeves rolled up to show off this distinctive detail – the mini cut also means it’s the perfect accompaniment to a playful party dress. If it’s a classic French look you’re after, channel style icon Françoise Hardy by finishing with a chic neck scarf, gold jewels and a butter-soft leather bag. Similarly pretty and practical, Chloé’s silk scarf-print dress is a faultless piece fit for all manner of occasions. Not only is the asymmetric hem universally flattering, it also means this dress can be worn with everything from barely there sandals and ladylike pumps to ’70s-inspired block-heel boots. Solving the desk-to-dinner dilemma once and for all, with a simple accessory switch-up this dress will work for off-duty days, the office, after-work drinks and everything in between.
“I want to create fashion that enhances the personality of the woman who wears it
”Natacha Ramsay-Levi
Unlike some labels, which seem to do a 180° turn with each season, Chloé has a strong sense of identity. Over the years the label’s modern take on bohemia has become its calling card, and no piece is more synonymous with this sense of wanderlust than the blanket coat. Cast in sumptuous wool, this timely yet timeless piece is a failsafe way to add polish to your winter wardrobe. Perfect for layering over chunky knits and over-the-knee boots, it adds a sense of romance to any outfit. The same is true of sailor pants, a Chloé classic that exude an androgynous edge and recall cool-girl icons like Charlotte Rampling. Not only does the high-waist cut mean these closet staples have almost magical leg-lengthening powers, they also work with everything from tank tops to tees and tie-neck blouses. Meaning if you invest in a pair, they’re sure to become one of the most-worn pieces in your arsenal.
In short, Chloé Signatures – beautiful pieces in and of themselves, as well as endlessly wearable styling essentials – are nothing short of sartorial alchemy.