Chemena Kamali Hosts an Intimate Dinner to Celebrate Her Chloé Fall Collection
On a cloudy Parisian evening, Chemena Kamali gathered friends and editors for an intimate dinner at Maxim’s, one of the city’s most storied restaurants, to celebrate her Fall collection for Chloé. The plush Belle Époque interiors, rich with history and romance, provided the perfect backdrop for an evening that felt both glamorous and deeply personal.
“There’s something iconic and ceremonial about Maxim’s—it’s a Parisian classic,” Kamali mused. “When you visit Paris, it’s nice to indulge in the opulence of past eras. So many people, across generations, have memories tied to this place. It’s filled with stories and history.”
Dressed in one of her own designs, Kamali embodied the effortless cool she has infused into Chloé since becoming creative director in 2023. “The women around me inspire me—the ones I work with every day, the ones I see on the streets, and those I’ve admired since childhood in music and film,” she reflected. “Beyond their work, I’m drawn to their stories, their creative processes, their choices, talents, and achievements. That’s what truly inspires me.”
Since stepping into her role, Kamali has cultivated a loyal community around Chloé, attracting young, stylish women drawn to the brand’s modern yet romantic sensibility. “The way I choose the people around me is intuitive and personal,” she said. “It’s about inspiring personalities—women from different generations who embody the spirit of Chloé naturally. They are authentic and help evolve the idea of the Chloé woman. I love bringing together diverse perspectives to spark conversations and create new energy.”
At the show earlier that day, a striking lineup of young muses sat front row, many of whom gathered for dinner to toast Kamali’s latest collection. Neneh Cherry, accompanied by her daughter Mabel, was among them. “What Chemena is creating is truly beautiful—both powerful and delicate. Today’s show was spectacular!” Cherry enthused. “I love the balance between strength and softness—the silks, the leathers, the fur, the bags. As women, we are nurturing and compassionate, but also fierce and resilient. Some days, the world feels overwhelming, making us feel both powerless and powerful at the same time,” she continued. “The world is a crazy place, and finding beauty and joy is essential. This collection captured all of that. I could easily throw on one of those dresses—not just for a night out or a performance, but for everyday life. It would become part of my world.”
Lily James, effortlessly striking in a billowing black gown with a daring slit, shared similar praise. “Chemena truly radiates beauty and positivity—she embodies a feminine elegance that I’m absolutely obsessed with,” she said. “I wanted to wear every single look that came down the runway—they’re incredibly wearable and smart. What she’s creating for Chloé is exquisite.” James highlighted a few favorites: “I loved the low-slung skirt with the big belt. The collection had such incredible variety—you could be a working woman in a blouse with bold shoulders, ethereal in one of those dreamy dresses, or exude strength in a big leather trench layered with multiple bags and statement belts. It was tough, cool, and empowering. She designs for all women, making fashion both effortless and uplifting.”
Rashida Jones echoed the sentiment. “I love what Chemena is doing—it’s romantic, feminine, effortless, and fluid, yet still has a cool, urban edge,” she said. “The collection is filled with stunning pieces that feel completely wearable for everyday life—a perfect way to bring a touch of romance into your wardrobe. The way Chemena wears Chloé is so inspiring—it makes me want to wear it every day. I absolutely love her style.”
Musician Laufey, ethereal in a flowing pale dress and shimmering earrings, spoke to the movement in Kamali’s designs. “I’ve known Chemena since the beginning of my career, and what stands out most is how her clothes move,” she said. “They’re not only beautiful and artistic but incredibly comfortable. As a musician, I’m deeply aware of what I wear—how it feels on my body, how it inspires my creativity. When I wear pieces designed by women, they exude femininity without sacrificing power or strength. They elevate me to be my best artistic self.” She continued, “Wearing Chloé makes me feel like a painting—soft, fluid, and effortless. I love wearing Chloé on stage because the dresses move so beautifully when I perform. Whether I’m playing the cello, guitar, or piano, it feels like the wind is lifting them up. They’re truly some of my favorite pieces to wear while performing.”
The dinner itself felt more like a reunion of old friends than just another fashion week event. Guests lingered over foie gras on brioche and decadent mousse au chocolat, unwinding after a long day of shows. Photographer David Sims and art director Ferdinando Verderi chatted in a quiet corner, while Dree Hemingway caught up with Isabella Massenet and Olympia of Greece. Kamali, surrounded by her stylish, spirited crowd, radiated warmth and joy—embodying the essence of the Chloé woman.
“Like the women I love to dress, Chloé is ever-evolving, with a story that unfolds in layers, dimensions, and shifting moods,” she reflected. “She is complex, never confined to a single identity, but rather multifaceted and emotionally rich. Like all of us, she embraces contradictions. She exists in her heart space, in a state of flow. Chloé captures a balance of natural femininity, sensuality, and lightness, harmonized with independence and freedom. This soft strength has always drawn me in.”
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