Designer Game Changers

The future of French fashion is women-led. Thanks to Chanel’s Virginie Viard and Lacoste’s Louise Trotter, two of the country’s most iconic brands are ushering a new era of style—and redefining how women dress along the way.

Louise Trotter of Lacoste

After nine year at the helm of British label Joseph, Louise Trotter joined Lacoste as the first female creative director in the brand’s 86-year history. For her first FW19 debut, Trotter embraced Lacoste’s tennis roots, updating the sport’s often prim uniforms with a streetwear edge. In an ideal blend of technical meets tailoring, twinsets and knitwear were reworked in less conventional silhouettes. Trench coats were supersized and sweat suits were remixed from athletic staples to true ready-to-wear. A primarily neutral palette was accented with pops of color, though even the simplest of whites and tans felt luxurious, thanks to a focus on fabrics. Trotter’s mission wasn’t to change the brand; its aesthetic simply needed to be refined. In this new Lacoste world, leading an active lifestyle looks really good.

Unisex LIVE Water-Resistance Pullover Windbreaker, Women’s Contrast Belt Trench Coat and Women’s Crewneck Checkered-Logo Cotton Sweater from Lacoste 
Where to find: Upper Level Grand Court

Virginie Viard of Chanel

Best known as his “right-hand woman,” Virginie Viard worked under Karl Lagerfeld for more than 30 years, starting at Chanel as an intern in 1987 and eventually becoming studio director. Following the designer’s death last year, Viard was named his successor—a logical move considering she was responsible for taking Lagerfeld’s sketches and assigning items to the female artisans in the atelier.

Viard’s debut collection for Cruise 2020 saw a continuation and reinterpretation of both Lagerfeld’s and Coco Chanel’s legacies. Her vision, which she described as “nonchalant elegance,” featured more practical and utilitarian clothing as well as fresh takes on the house’s signature tweed and pastels. When balanced with the sophistication of the house’s DNA, Viard’s designs serve as a reminder that women are as multifaceted as the clothes they choose to wear.

Suede Calfskin, Gold-Tone Metal & Lambskin Black Belt, Small Flap Bag and Camelia Necklace by Chanel
Where to find: Upper Level Saks Fifth Avenue Court