The miniskirt and over-the-knee boots - a timeless classic in seductive style that Chanel transforms with elegance.
Coco Chanel loved to wear boots, even if she didn't include them in her collections. And yet, one model of boots became iconic and often featured in shows at the fashion house, run by Karl Lagerfeld from 1983 to 2019 and, after his death, by Virginie Viard, his right-hand man (and later by Englishman Matthieu Blasi, the newl…
Miniskirt and over-the-knee boots - the Chanel combination
Coco Chanel loved to wear boots, even if she didn't include them in her collections. And yet, one model of boots became iconic and often featured in shows at the fashion house, run by Karl Lagerfeld from 1983 to 2019 and, after his death, by Virginie Viard, his right-hand man (and later by Englishman Matthieu Blasi, the newly appointed creative director). Cuissardes, tall boots whose name comes from the French word cuisse ("thigh"), meaning boots that exceed knee height. Combined with miniskirts, cuissardes bring to life an aesthetic that has remained seductive since the 1960s, but always with the fashion house's specific stylistic signature.
In cinema, the Chanel combination entered the collective imagination with Anne Hathaway's look in The Devil Wears Prada: the iconic black leather Chanel boots, worn with a miniskirt and a fitted tweed jacket, mark Andy Sachs' transformation from anonymous intern to fashion girl.
Combined with miniskirts, the quilted boots return periodically in the fashion house's collections, becoming the leitmotif of seasons such as autumn-winter 2005-2006 or 2013-2014. Presented in a variety of fabrics and designs, from leather to suede, vinyl and rainproof rubber, they offer a second-skin-like fit or soft performances. Knee-high and above, they slim the legs and create a graceful silhouette that is complemented by maxi sweaters, long jackets or pleated micro skirts. As well as adding style and elegance, they provide comfort and protection from the cold.
On Chanel's historic catwalks, this combination is realised through stylish and elegant outfits that are still relevant today. The little black dress with corolla sleeves, the rock corsage with chains, the white shirt with an oversized cut and the pleated mini in preppy style are among the ostentatious examples. The classic tweed jacket, which is a symbol of timeless style, remains unmissable.
Chanel 2013-2014
Chanel 2013-2014
Chanel 2005-2006
Chanel 2005-2006
Chanel 2005-2006
For autumn-winter 2024-25, Chanel updates the pairing with cusard boots in a solid suede version with a rounded top, paired with loose-fitting wool mini dresses worn in layers, with a focus on comfort, practicality and effortless aesthetics.
Chanel 2024-2025
The Chanel Pre-Fall 2025 collection shows how easy it is to recreate combinations thanks to their versatility, suitable for different occasions. The fashion outfits combine contrasting fabrics and display luxurious stylistic virtuosity. Velvet or suede couture dresses are paired with evening gowns, creating a sophisticated combination of textures. A dress with a textured leather coat or a wool minidress with a waistcoat paired with black leather cuisards with pointed toes add unmistakable elegance.
Chanel Pre-Fall 2025.
Chanel Pre-Fall 2025.
Chanel Pre-Fall 2025.