Irina’s World

0.5 min read

We’re still recovering from the mesmerising effects of Karl Lagerfeld’s futuristic runway at the Chanel spring/summer17 show last night. Furthermore, the star-studded front row has us thinking about the industry giant’s many muses whose careers both Lagerfeld – and by association Chanel – have helped to launch. 

Chanel Paris-Monte Carlo a/w 06.

Chanel Paris-Monte Carlo a/w 06.

One such talented starlet would have to be Irina Lăzăreanu, the Romanian model that was catapulted into the spotlight in early 2006. Her vintage-inspired rock ‘n’ roll style and quirky androgyny caught the attention of designers like Monsieur Lagerfeld.

Fast forward to 2008 and she’s performing four songs off her debut album at the Chanel pre-fall collection. While we were all staring at the glossy images of this waif who has been immortalised by men like Hedi Slimane, Lagerfeld and Ghesquière, Irina had been touring with Pete Doherty, who she first met aged 15 when she was studying ballet and working on her own music, which is inspired by the likes of Bob Dylan, Neil Young and Joan Boaez.

The many facets of Irina are explored through songs that are haunting and melodic, such as Strange Places performed with Sean Lennon, which serves as a backdrop for the details in Chanel’s Paris-London 07 collection.

Whimsical and poetic but never monotone: There is uniqueness to her particular brand of music that is far removed from the overly commercialised nature of music today. It definitely isn’t for everyone, but that’s what makes it so genius.