Your Friday French Fashion Report: Chanel Spring/Summer 2011

I love Chanel and always will. Under the watchful eye of Karl Lagerfeld, the legacy of Coco is respected; her signature pieces a tradition in every collection. The classic knit suit is afforded an update in the pret à porter Spring/Summer 2011 collection with the tiniest of bloomers replacing the pencil skirt, and we see the quintessential Madame Chanel flowing silhouette in soft blouses and dresses. Those garments inspired by the great Chanel are my favorites of this season's offerings, however those obviously inspired by the recent reality show "Sister Wives" should have been left on the cutting room floor. Especially but not exclusively the Peter Pan collar, which should never be worn by any female over the age of 6. (I had envy to reach through the screen and rip it off a bitch!) I am ambivilent as well about the return of the clunky shoe, which should be used in moderation, and I am way over the open-toed-cut-out-ankle bootie which is merely a shoe with an identity crisis. But there are some stunning pieces that would add glamour and chic to any woman's closet, and the show is beautifully staged with a delightful suprise; a cameo appearance by the iconic Ines de le Fressange, who arm in arm with Monsieur Lagerfeld leads the finale followed by his army of well dressed starving zombies. So, without further ado, I offer you the Ready to Wear Chanel Spring/Summer Collection 2011: