The Paris-Dallas 2013/14 collection conjures all the fantasy and romance of the Wild Frontier. From the pioneer days of pre-Civil War Texas, to the refinement of early 19th century Americana, Karl Lagerfeld refused to let this whimsical and distinctly contemporary collection linger in the past.

The Wild West is won in sophisticated details that showcase expert craftsmanship and impeccable taste: embroidery, feathers, fringe, pleats and frills lend a soft, feminine twist to this home-on-the-range style. Suits take on a whole new twist: a loose-fitting jacket with fringe embellished with stars and a mid-calf cowgirl skirt to be worn over boots. The urban yet unrestricted silhouette is topped with thick woolen ponchos and capes, winter coats fastened at the waist and worn over jackets, a leather topstitched cowboy shirt worn with pants and a leather coat with fringe detail. Elegant eveningwear features star-spangled gowns of velvet and tulle, satin blouses with fringe and flared sleeves, and pleated skirts with lace, feather and tulle flounces paired with delicately embroidered tops. The signature Chanel palette of white, beige, red, navy and black is enhanced here with browns, grays, taupe, and pink accents.

The little black jacket fearlessly features Wild West shoulder pads. Tweed, leather, knit, denim, cashmere and muslin are speckled with Native American geometric symbols and stars –a favorite Chanel motif, and a nod here to the “Star-Spangled Banner.” Accessories are also given a romantic western treatment: bags and gloves with fringe detail, branded purses, Civil-War-era-inspired Stetson hats, pantyhose branded with a trompe l’œil cowboy boot print, and mid-calf and knee-high boots set to take on open prairies and city streets.

The Paris-Dallas Métiers d’Art 2013/14 collection is now available in boutiques.

Photo by Benoit Peverelli