Naomi Campbell rewears Chanel runway dress from 1997 for Cannes Film Festival’s red carpet proving that there’s nothing more fashionable than sustainablity. See the then vs. now:
Cannes 2024: Rewearing an old dress is both a practical and sustainable choice, but only a few can claim to have recycled a dress they once debuted on the runway for Chanel Couture. Model Naomi Campbell, who was the first black woman to appear as a model on the covers of Time and Vogue France, can make that claim. For the Cannes premiere of “Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga,” the supermodel donned a stunning piece from the Chanel fall 1996 couture show.
The sultry, floor-length dress features a black sequined bodice supported by delicate strings of pearls draped over her shoulders. The mermaid skirt is adorned with alternating stripes of black paillettes and sheer black tulle. While Campbell originally wore the dress over a black slip on the ’90s runway, she opted for a more daring look in 2024, pairing it with just black underwear. For hair, she switched her sleek bob for voluminous curls.
Law Roach and Naomi Campbell
Styled by the renowned image architect Law Roach, who himself sported Chanel’s iconic tweed jacket, Campbell, at 53, presented a glamorous update on her original look from 27 years ago. She complemented the dress with matte black pointy-toe pumps, replacing the round patent leather shoes from the Chanel show. Additionally, she accessorized with dramatic dangly earrings, enhancing the elegance of her ensemble.
Naomi Campbell poses for photographers upon arrival at the premiere of the film ‘Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga’ at the 77th international film festival, Cannes, southern France, Wednesday, May 15, 2024. (Photo by Vianney Le Caer/Invision/AP)
Naomi Campbell’s 1997 photoshoot in a Chanel dress
Naomi Campbell’s 1997 photoshoot in a Chanel dress
Naomi Campbell has long established herself as one of the most enduring models in the fashion industry. Now, she’s demonstrating the timeless value of an enduring wardrobe as well. The sensual floor-length dress, with its black sequined square bodice, pearl straps, and tessellating panels of black paillettes and sheer tulle, remains as breathtaking today as it was nearly three decades ago if not more.
By rewearing this iconic Chanel gown, Campbell not only showcased her impeccable sense of style but also highlighted the importance of sustainability in fashion. This elegant display reinforces her status as a fashion icon and a pioneer of mindful fashion choices. If supermodels like Naomi can do it, why should we shy away?