A new exhibition in London is highlighting the artisanal skills of Métiers d’Art Fellowship graduates. This collaboration between Chanel’s Le19M and The King’s Foundation showcases high-fashion craftsmanship through student-led designs.
How Chanel’s Le19M is bringing 700 artisans' expertise to London
The collaboration between Chanel’s Le19M and The King’s Foundation is bringing high-fashion craftsmanship to a wider audience through a new London exhibition. this partnership, which began in 2023, aims to bridge the gap between centuries-old techniques and the next generation of designers.
Le19M serves as the central hub for Chanel’s 12 specialized maisons in Paris, housing a collective of more than 700 artisans.. According to the report, this facility is dedicated to preserving "exceptional savoir-faire" by training young talent in traditional methods. By partnering with The King’s Foundation—a charity founded in 1990 that supports over 15,000 students annually across 35 countries—Chanel is extending its influence into global educational frameworks.
This partnership merges the foundation’s educational expertise with the practical, hands-on training provided by Le19M. the goal is to ensure that the specialized skills of the Chanel maisons are passed down to a new generation of designers through a structured, postgraduate approach.
From 3D embroidered capes to Queen Elizabeth II-inspired designs
The current exhibition in London features a diverse range of student-made pieces, including sculptural hats and 3D embroidered capes. Some of the clothing on display draws direct inspiration from the wardrobe of the late Queen Elizabeth II, blending historical reverence with contemporary student creativity.. as reported by WWD, the exhibition allows the public to witness the high level of talent resulting from these intensive programs.
Jacqueline Farrell, the executive director of education at The King’s Foundation, encouraged the public to visit the exhibition to enjoy the talent on show. the display highlights how students have applied traditional techniques to modern, sculptural forms , creating a bridge between heritage and the future of fashion.
The 35-week millinery and 24-week embroidery training paths
Students in the Métiers d’Art Fellowship undergo rigorous, specialized training programs to master their crafts. The millinery fellowship lasts 35 weeks and includes a two-week industry placement within the United Kingdom, providing students with real-world professional exposure. Meanwhile, a group of six embroidery students participates in a 24-week residential program focused on both traditional and modern embellishment techniques.
Beyond these specific tracks, the program also offers an eight-month atelier fellowship for students working in the broader fields of fashion and textiles. These structured timelines ensure that the training is both deep and practical, allowing students to hone their skills under the guidance of master artisans.
Which specific students and designers are behind these new creations?
While the exhibition celebrates the achievements of the fellowship graduates,the source does not identify the individual names of the students involved. This leaves the specific identities of the emerging designers behind the 3D capes and sculptural hats unverified.
It also remains unclear how long the London exhibition will be open to the public or if the showcased pieces will be available for purchase. Additionally, the report does not specify the exact London venue hosting the display, leaving potential visitors to seek further details elsewhere.
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