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THE SHOW – CHANEL 2023/24 MÉTIERS D’ART

THE LEAD – JAMES PECIS

@JAMESPECIS

THE INTERNATIONAL SESSION STYLIST TAKES US BEHIND THE SCENES AT THE ICONIC CHANEL SHOW

WATCH

When did preparation begin for the show?

Chanel is very organised, and I know a good amount of time beforehand that I will be involved. As it gets closer, all the pieces start to fall into place and a clear vision of the show emerges. The final looks do not take shape until a few days before when we do the fittings, but we know the general vibe ahead of time.

How did the creative process differ for this show compared to other Chanel collections and campaigns you’ve worked on?

I thought it was great that Jamie Hawkesworth was chosen to shoot the campaign and they cast some cool young kids from Manchester. Chanel has always been authentic and respectful to the places where the shows are held, and it really wants to incorporate as much as possible of what makes the place special.

Describe the overall aesthetic for the show and how you decided on the core looks featured?

Manchester is about music and youth, and I wanted to make sure there was a sense of modern realness to the girls in a cold, damp city that thrives off a youthful culture with such a huge musical history. It was raining during the show, so the models were bundled up with rosy cheeks and noses, and we did hair that we knew would adjust to the dampness.

In such a unique environment, how did you choose your team for the show? Were there any special qualities needed for such a huge undertaking?

I have a core team that includes a lot of hairdressers in the UK, and a few that live in Manchester. I think the UK produces some of the best hairdressers in the world and this was one of the easiest locations we have had to assemble the team.

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JAMES PECIS

Were there any Mancunian references which inspired you, and how did you go about capturing the unique energy that buzzes around the streets?

I think it was helpful to be in Manchester over a week before the show. We did the shoot there with the local kids and shot at locations around the town. It was a great way to feel its energy. There wasn’t a specific band or period I was inspired by, but I looked at the music history of Manchester – which blew me away!

What are your three kit bag essentials?

My three must-have products were Queen For a Day from TIGI, as well as my own brand Blu & Green Solid Oil and Blu & Green Dry Shampoo.

What was the atmosphere like on show night?

With viewers from across the globe, how do you handle nerves and create a calm environment backstage? I love my team and we are always very prepared for the show day. I have known most of them for a long time and enjoy our time together. Everyone works hard to create excellence, so I try to enjoy the moment and appreciate the whole opportunity to be there.

What was your standout moment from the show?

The afterparty was next level!