In Cuba, even a fashion catwalk can mark the course of history. The strides of the models are a great step forward for a country that after fifty years of embargo wants to rediscover a bit of joy and lightness. So it is not surprising that Chanel’s fashion show, designed by the genius and intemperance of Karl Lagerfeld and held in the centre of Havana on 3rd May this year, was a momentous event for this Caribbean country.
The chic style of the Parisian fashion house, in a blaze of sequins, prints, panama hats and glitter, even on the Che Guevara style berets, was a perfect match for the vintage pre-Castro revolution setting. Hundreds of jet set and international VIP guests were present, including Vin Diesel, Vanessa Paradis and Gisele Bundchen, who admired the “Cruise 2017” collection, inspired by the era in which Cuba was a popular holiday and cruise destination for rich Americans. A return to the fifties, thanks to the fashion, music and colours.
Other companies from the fashion and design industry are also riding the wave of glamour that has seduced the island. Amongst these are the jewellery maker Rosana Vargas, who owns the company ROX 950 producing handmade silver jewellery and the fashion designer José Luis González, owner of the women’s fashion company Modarte. Difficulties remain for those sourcing fabrics and materials and trying to interact with fashion houses using Web 2.0, due to structural weaknesses in Internet lines. However, the island has faith and after relations with America have gradually reopened since 2014 and the end of the embargo is now within sight, it is slowly coming out of autocracy and opening up to a freer, more global world and, why not, even a more elegant and refined world as well.
May the counter-revolution begin. Even on the highest of heels.