Karl Lagerfeld triumphs with Chanel collection

Karl Lagerfeld has triumphed with his latest collection for Chanel at Paris Fashion Week.

The designer unveiled his autumn/winter 2012 haute couture line to rave reviews in Paris' Grand Palais yesterday (03.07.12) under the watchful eyes of the fashion pack including Alexa Chung, Clemence Poesy, Diane Kruger and Sofia Coppola.

British Vogue fashion director Lucinda Chambers deemed the collection in keeping with the iconic label's founder Coco Chanel's classic and chic aesthetic.

She said: "It was a real homage to what Coco did - especially the trouser suits. The Chanel customer will be very happy."

His collection was in turn elegant, modern and playful, without losing the feminine touch Chanel is celebrated for. Karl played with contrasts by teeming tweed suits with slouchy beanie hats and elegant evening wear with tough, oversized jackets.

Other Paris Fashion Week standouts so far include Riccardo Tisci's gypsy-inspired offering for Givenchy which exuded power and strength with its' rich and delicate embroidery.

Giorgio Armani dazzled with his feminine Prive collection, which mixed pretty pastels and sparkles.

Giambattista Valli's haute couture line featured full-skirted gowns with a romantic edge.

Karl has also reportedly named his new handbag after his beloved cat Choupette.

A New York Times journalist visited Chanel's HQ and branded the new design "knitted" and "soft". The bag is thought to be hitting the catwalks in spring 2013.