Relaxed People Early 2011 Women's Trend Report

Leading Words : In the early autumn 2011 fashion scene, major brands took a more approachable and nostalgic route, from Chanel to Calvin Klein and Oscar de la Renta.

From left: Chanel, Calvin Klein, Oscar de la Renta - Early Autumn Runway

Chanel: Retro Byzantine “Low-Key” Lafayette

The performance of Chanel’s 2011 spring/summer collection was nothing short of a visual feast. Inspired by André Le Nôtre’s gardens, it was a luxurious throwback to the 1980s. Karl Lagerfeld managed to turn rustic elements into something elegant and refined. This season, however, Chanel shifted toward a more accessible and intimate vibe, with a focus on retro charm that felt closer to the everyday woman. >> 2011 Early Autumn Women's Fashion Trends <<

Chanel 2011 Early Autumn vs Spring/Summer Collection

In the early autumn 2011 season, Chanel opened its Rue Cambon store in Paris as a runway space, transforming the second floor into an elegant lounge reminiscent of a medieval Portuguese aristocratic setting. Compared to the grandeur of the previous season, this show felt like a private gathering. The opening look featured a navy blue wool blouse with square copper buttons and tailored pencil trousers—simple yet sophisticated. The materials and decor matched perfectly, creating a sleek and sexy aesthetic. As Lagerfeld said, "After the spring/summer collection, I wanted to try something more comfortable and wearable." This marked a return to a more down-to-earth and retro-inspired design language.

Chanel 2011 Early Autumn Runway

The theme of the collection was titled “Paris-Byzantium,” drawing inspiration from Queen Theodora and the fading Byzantine Empire. Karl Lagerfeld noted the parallels between her journey from a circus performer to an empress and Coco Chanel’s rise from a singer to a fashion icon. This season’s designs echoed the Byzantine motifs seen in previous collections, paying tribute to the brand’s heritage. For Lagerfeld, returning to the roots of Chanel was not just a nod to the past but a strategic move that resonated deeply with both fans and critics.

Calvin Klein: T-Side Meets Minimalism and Practicality

Calvin Klein 2011 Early Autumn Collection

Francisco Costa’s vision for Calvin Klein has always been rooted in simplicity and functionality. The early autumn 2011 collection embodied this philosophy, with a minimalist aesthetic that felt almost monastic. He described the looks as “clean and practical.” While the runway presentation was understated, the collection itself seemed to cater more to real-world wearability than avant-garde experimentation. This approach aligned well with CK’s broader strategy, balancing artistic expression with commercial appeal.

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