CHANEL Collection de Byzance – First Look!

Drawn by the opulence of the Byzantine era, CHANEL’s Collection de Byzance channels the brooding lushness of the period with a limited edition capsule collection in tones of glimmering gold and sultry red. Peter Philips, CHANEL’s Global Creative Director, looked to the history of Empress Theodora, wife of Justinian I, and her distinctive fierce cosmetic look of a red line drawn on her eyelid (which also followed the shape of her brows), as the inspiration for his runway looks.

The earthy yet jewel-rich shades of the ‘Regard Signé de CHANEL in Topkapi’ eyeshadow quad, are a quartet of creamy powder hues in shades of copper, taupe, gold and bronze, all done in the quilted pattern of the buttons found on a CHANEL jacket.

Above is a view of the Topkapi Palace gates in Istanbul, Turkey, where one can easily understand why Mademoiselle Coco was so fascinated by all things Byzantium, in particular the spectacular opulence as evidenced by the elaborate scrollwork.

‘Joues Contraste Rouge’ powder blush, to perhaps add a sultry bloom to your cheeks.

The glimmering golden hue of ‘Joues Contraste Or’ powder blush to add a subtle, yet seductive glow.

Rouge Allure lipstick in ‘Rouge Byzantin’ will impart a moisturizing ruby flush to your lips.

A view of Peter Philips transforming a model into a Byzantine goddess, echoing Empress Theordora’s unique look.

The fashion forward Empress Theodora and her innovative eye makeup.

Note how the looks created on the above CHANEL models, expertly marries a look from the past into this historically rich runway collection.

Final thoughts: I was informed that this was to be a very limited collection and that it would be available only at specific CHANEL boutiques, however I know that you can now view and purchase the products through CHANEL’s website, although Canadian consumers (like yours truly) are not able to do so…which is highly disappointing, not to mention frustrating. CHANEL, if you’re listening, time to adjust your website restrictions to accommodate your numerous Canadian fans, please! Apart from that, the Topkapi eyeshadow quad looks to have all the makings of a stellar compact but I don’t think I will be attempting the “Theodora” look anytime soon!