Coco Chanel was famously passionate about Chinese culture. Although she never actually visited the country, Karl Lagerfeld recently quipped: “The idea is often more creative than the reality.” And for Chanel, that was exactly the case – the idea of China and its rich culture, history and art gripped her imagination and inspired many of her iconic designs.

For the Pre-Fall 2010 collection, Lagerfeld reached deep into Chinese history – the 17^th Century, to be exact, during the Period of the Three Emperors. This time period reflected a sobriety that Lagerfeld found awe-inspiring. It is a period that embodies the attention to detail and level of craftsmanship found in this latest collection.

The show was presented in the city of Shanghai, and served as a backdrop to the Asian inspired pieces. The city lights illuminated the lacquered red, luscious silks and finely woven embroidery parading down the runway.

Hirshleifers hand selected the finest pieces of this exquisite collection just for you. Stop by now to see these memorable Shanghai Chanel designs.