When Johnny Wactor found three people in masks trying to steal the catalytic converter from his Toyota Prius last May, one of the thieves yelled “No!” before his “hot-headed” companion fired a single shot into the “General Hospital” actor’s chest, a detective testified Monday.
New details about the case came at a preliminary hearing for Robert Barceleau and Sergio Estrada, who are charged with murdering Wactor in downtown Los Angeles. The defendants, both 18, have pleaded not guilty.
In a jailhouse conversation secretly recorded by authorities, Estrada said he hadn’t wanted to “work” stealing catalytic converters with Barceleau, whom he called “hot-headed,” said Det. Justin Howarth of the Los Angeles Police Department. Estrada claimed he yelled at Barceleau not to shoot before Barceleau pulled the trigger, Howarth said.
Nicknamed “Smalls,” the 5-foot 6-inch, 110-pound Barceleau told an informant in a separate recording that he shot Wactor because the actor was “going after the homie” after finding them hoisting up his car to saw off its catalytic converter, Howarth said.
Wactor’s killers left behind a 2-ton, rapid-pump floor jack next to the Prius. Police found the fingerprints of three men on the jack, according to testimony: Barceleau, Estrada and Leonel Gutierrez.
Gutierrez has pleaded no contest to attempted robbery and grand theft. A fourth defendant, Frank “Littles” Olano, pleaded no contest to receiving stolen property and accessory after the fact. Gutierrez and Olano are due to be sentenced Jan. 15.
Olano told an informant he received six catalytic converters from Barceleau, Estrada and Gutierrez on the night Wactor was killed, Howarth testified.
About 20 minutes before the homicide, cameras maintained by USC’s Department of Public Safety captured the suspects stealing the catalytic converter from a car less than two miles from where Wactor had parked his 2013 Prius before heading to a shift tending bar at the Level 8 lounge in the Moxy Hotel.
Around 3:20 a.m., Wactor returned to his car with a co-worker, Anita Gibney, who told police they first thought the Prius was being towed. When they realized it was a theft, Gibney tried to discreetly take a photograph of the dark-colored sedan parked next to the Prius while Wactor confronted the thieves, LAPD Det. Keith Gonzales testified.
“That’s my car,” he said. “What are you doing?”
Then, Gibney said, she “heard a loud snap,” Gonzales testified. Wactor fell back into Gibney, who asked if he was OK.
“Nope,” Wactor said. “I’ve been shot.”
The actor, 37, was pronounced dead 14 minutes later from a single gunshot to the chest, Gonzales said.
Five hours after the homicide, Barceleau photographed himself brandishing a gun equipped with a laser sight, according to Howarth. Estrada posed with one arm around Barceleau, cash fanned out in his other hand.
In the jailhouse sting, Barceleau said he gave the gun used to kill Wactor to his father, who disposed of it, Howarth testified.
Barceleau and Estrada are members of the Dukes clique of the Florencia-13 gang, Howarth said. Barceleau is also charged with assaulting police and leading them on a high-speed chase 11 days after Wactor was killed.
In court papers, prosecutors wrote that Barceleau and two other suspects were burglarizing a car parked on 28th Street in South Los Angeles when two neighbors stepped onto a balcony to see what was going on.
Barceleau pointed the laser sight of his gun at them before fleeing, prosecutors allege. Chased by police, Barceleau drove 80 miles per hour toward an LAPD cruiser on Figueroa Street and evaded arrest, prosecutors wrote. Barceleau has pleaded not guilty and denied the allegations.
In a search warrant affidavit, Howarth said police suspected Barceleau, Estrada, Gutierrez and Olano in seven other crimes. According to his affidavit, they include a kidnapping and robbery at a cannabis dispensary in Chatsworth. Authorities also suspected the men of burglarizing a Melrose Avenue boutique called “Whole Lotta Cough Syrup,” a rare sneaker vendor in Encino, and pharmacies in Hollywood, North Hollywood and Sun Valley, although they have not been charged with these crimes.
Plugable unveils new docks at CES. Image source: Plugable
There are three new cutting-edge docking stations from Plugable, adding more displays and ports to your desk than ever before.
Even as Apple adds more ports to its laptops and desktops, it is never quite enough. Thankfully, companies like Plugable offer ways to push past external display limits or pack way more charging ports into a tiny space.
Plugable revealed three new products during CES 2025 — the 5 Display Dock, 10-port USB-C Charger, and DisplayLink Pro Quad Display Adapter. Each of these products will help users cut cable clutter and improve their workspace.
“At Plugable, we’re always aiming to push the boundaries of innovation, and with the launch of the PS-10CC and the UD-7400PD, we’re proud to introduce products that are truly first of their kind,” said Bernie Thompson, Founder and CTO of Plugable. “The PS-10CC is the world’s first 10-port USB-C charger with intelligent power allocation, and the UD-7400PD is the first docking station to support up to five external monitors — all designed to make users’ lives easier and more efficient.”
USB-C 5-Display Docking Station with HDMI 2.1 and 140W Charging
Connect up to 5 high-resolution displays to your MacBook Pro while providing 140W of charging. The UD-7400PD docking station, aka the 5 Display Dock, works with every M-series Mac, even ones that normally support only one display.
Connect five external displays. Image source: Plugable
Connect three 8K, or one 8K and four 4K displays over the available combination of ports. There is an HDMI 2.1 port, HDMI 2.0 port, and three USB-C ports with DisplayLink.
Users will need to use DisplayLink software to use all five external displays, but the dock is essentially universally compatible. Additional ports in the front enable users to charge other devices like their iPhone.
The 10-port USB-C charger uses Plugable’s PriorityShare technology to intelligently distribute power across all connected devices. Prioritize charging order from left to right, and as each device reaches full charge, power is reallocated down the line.
Charge 10 devices in a night. Image source: Plugable
Connect any USB-C power supply from 18W to 100W, and the available power will be allocated to the connected devices. Usually, this would mean turning the incoming charge into a trickle as it was spread across each port, but PriorityShare handles it differently.
Even with the slowest 18W rating, devices will be charged in order until they are filled. Connect anything from your iPhone to your AirPods and wake up with everything charged.
USB-C Quad 4K HDMI Graphics Adapter with 100W PD charging
The DisplayLink Pro Quad Display Adapter is a travel-ready accessory that can connect four 4K 60Hz HDMI displays to a single USB-C port. The connected laptop and accessories get up to 100W passthrough charging.
Add four displays to your M-series Mac. Image source: Plugable
The adapter works with any M-series Mac and adds four displays to your setup. It has an integrated USB-C cable for easy connection.
Users will need to use DisplayLink software to use all four external displays, but the dock is essentially universally compatible. It can be bus powered, but the included PD passthrough port allows 90W to charge the laptop while 10W is used to power the dock.
In two weeks (Sat., Jan. 18, 2025), the first Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) pay-per-view (PPV) is going down inside the brand-new Intuit Dome in Los Angeles, California, and in the co-main event of UFC 311, Merab Dvalishvili will defend his Bantamweight title against rival Umar Nurmagomedov.
However, things might have taken a potentially “sad” turn.
Georgian reporter Giorgi Kokiashvili posted a picture revealing that one of Dvalishvilli’s friends is training with Nurmagomedov (and it’s not Belal).
“This pic broke my heart a little bit,” Kokiashvili wrote. “Magdi Amachov is helping Umar Nurmagomedov to prepare for Merab Dvalishvili. Merab helped Magdi to live like a human being in the US. He didn’t have a home, and Merab gave him a room for free in his own house and helped a lot. It’s just sad.”
“The people who said Merab and Aljo should fight each other despite being the best friends, are now saying this is totally OK,” he added. “Crazy world we live in. Wonder how much silver you guys need to sell your friends. Many Judas out there.”
This pic broke my heart a little bit.
Magdi Amachov is helping Umar Nurmagomedov to prepare for Merab Dvalishvili.
Merab helped Magdi to live like a human being in the US. He didn’t had a home and Merab gave him a room for free in his own house and helped a lot.
It’s not the first time a fighter’s buddy has helped out an opponent, but this one might hit Dvalishvili a little closer to home, and he might even have something to say about it next week.
For what it’s worth, Amachov, an amateur MMA Fighter with a 2-1 record, posted on his Instagram that he wishes both fighters good luck. He said the champion helped him out in a bad time and that he has developed a good brotherly relationship with Nurmagomedov.
New Year, New Winners! As the year begins, so does award show season. Recently, the 2025 Golden Globes kicked off the lineup of Hollywood’s biggest award shows. From wins by actresses like Zoe Saldaña and Demi Moore to films such as Wicked taking home awards, many are wondering if nominees who left empty-handed will get another chance at the next major event.
Up next are the 2025 Oscars, hosted by TV personality and comedian Conan O’Brien. According to Variety, the 61 year old stated, “America demanded it and now it’s happening: Taco Bell’s new Cheesy Chalupa Supreme. In other news, I’m hosting the Oscars.”
Can we expect repeat wins from Golden Globe winners, or will new faces take the stage to accept an Oscar? Find out more about the 2025 Oscar predictions below.
When Do the 2025 Oscar Nominations Come Out?
The Academy Awards will announce the nominations on Friday, January 17, 2025. The 97th annual event will take place on Sunday, March 2, 2025, beginning at 7:00 PM EST at the Dolby Theatre in Ovation Hollywood, Los Angeles, California.
Oscars 2025 Best Picture Predictions
Gareth Cattermole/Getty Images
According to Variety, Wicked is predicted to take the top spot for Best Motion Picture, followed by Conclave in second, The Brutalist in third, Anora in fourth, and Emilia Perez in fifth.
Who Won Best Picture at the 2025 Golden Globes?
The Brutalist won Best Motion Picture – Drama. During his acceptance speech, director Brady Corbet shared, according to AP News, “I was told that this film was un-distributable.” He added, “No one was asking for a three-and-half-hour film about a mid-century designer in 70mm. But it works.”
Meanwhile, the cast of Emilia Perez celebrated their win for Best Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy.
Other major winners included Wicked, which won the Golden Globe for Cinematic and Box Office Achievement. During his speech, director Jon M. Chu, as quoted by BBC, said, “We can still make art that is a radical act of optimism that is empowerment and that is joy – this means so much to all of us.”
Presley Gerber, the son of Cindy Crawford and Rande Gerber, is trying to give the impression that he proposed to another model named Lexi Wood. I did it, guys!, On Tuesday, Presley, who is 23 years old, posted an Instagram carousel that featured a variety of photographs and videos of her parents, who are genetically fortunate.
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Guys, I did it. A voice could be heard saying, “I’ve discovered the one who makes me the happiest person I’ve ever been,” over the top of a video clip that displayed Wood donning a Gerber jersey.
In typical fashion for members of Generation Z, the possible announcement was veiled in mystery and interspersed with a variety of unrelated photographs, such as a close-up one of Presley holding onto Wood’s buttocks while she was wearing a bikini and another of her right eye.
Wood provided additional evidence that a proposal had taken place when she shared her beau’s post on Instagram Story and added emojis depicting a lock and key, a love, and an infinity symbol.
After that, the emerald-eyed beauty left a remark on Presley’s post, which said, “loving you,” and the Celine ambassador finished it by saying, “is the easiest thing I’ve ever done.”
The 21-year-old Kaia Gerber threw a party to celebrate what appeared to be an engagement between the two. Even though his comments section was inundated with expressions of joy, a few readers suggested that the couple goes on a LONG engagement.
On the other hand, some people were not convinced that Presley had even posed the question. What the what??? Someone remarked in response to his caption, to which another person reacted, reportedly grabbing her butt for us all to see.
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In an Instagram Story on Wednesday, Presley referred to Wood as his closest friend and girlfriend, contributing to the confusion surrounding the past few days’ events. After waiting an hour, she used her account to refer to him as her best friend and boyfriend.
EasyJet has launched a new route to a popular European city that could be a perfect winter holiday for many people.
The new route to Lyon in France adds another destination to easyJet’s growing network at Newcastle Airport.
One person who visited Lyon on Tripadvisor said: “Since my childhood I love Lyon city, but my favourite place is the old town of Lyon, ‘le Vieux Lyon’.
“Lyon old town, known as Vieux Lyon, is situated across the Saone River from the “Presqu’ile” district. To walk with family or friends, it’s the perfect district.”
On top of year-round services to Amsterdam, Paris, Belfast and Bristol, the low-cost airline operates four flights a week to Palma and twice-weekly services to Alicante and Malaga.
Flights to Geneva have also increased to three times a week, providing more options for passengers during the ski season.
Brits will benefit from a new route which runs from Newcastle Airport to Lyon with easyJet.
The first flight departed on January 4, with the service operate weekly on Saturdays throughout January and February.
Skiers and snowboarders can hit the slopes at world-class ski resorts in the French Alps, with resorts like Alpe d’Huez and Val Thorens being close by.
Lyon itself is a popular city break destination and offers something for everyone, from visiting iconic landmarks such as the Basilica Notre-Dame de Fourvière or exploring the Renaissance streets of Vieux Lyon.
Richard Knight, Chief Operating Officer at Newcastle Airport, said: “We are delighted to see further investment from easyJet with new weekly flights to Lyon.
“This new route not only provides our customers with even more choice to visit one of France’s most vibrant cities but it also opens up convenient connections to the French Alps, making it an excellent choice for both week-long getaways and ski holidays.
“We are confident the new route will be hugely popular with our customers and it complements the fantastic range of destinations passengers can fly to with easyJet from Newcastle Airport.”
Ali Gayward, easyJet’s UK Country Manager, said: “Our new service from Newcastle to Lyon provides our customers in the North of England with another convenient connection at great value fares to Europe’s top ski resorts.
“With demand for flights to the Alps taking off, we’re sure this fantastic new route will prove popular this winter season and we look forward to welcoming passengers onboard.”
Flights to Lyon are available to book now with fares starting at £23.99 one-way.
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Spaghetti Aglio e Olio uses simple ingredients to create a dish bursting with flavor! With just garlic, olive oil, chili flakes, pasta, and parmesan cheese, this classic Italian recipe is a go-to for a tasty meal in less than 30 minutes.
Reasons You’ll Love This Recipe
Simply Delicious: This dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or when you’re craving something elegant without the fuss.
Quick and Easy: You can have this dish ready in under 30 minutes with just a handful of ingredients and minimal effort.
Customizable: You can easily adjust this recipe to suit your tastes. Omit the red pepper flakes if you don’t want spice. You can even add in some protein, like chicken or shrimp. Veggies like spinach, zucchini, bell pepper, or mushrooms would also be tasty.
Ingredients in Spaghetti Aglio E Olio
There are only 5 simple ingredients that go into this recipe, and you likely already have them in your kitchen. For exact measurements, look for the recipe card at the bottom of the post.
Spaghetti: The perfect pasta to absorb all the delicious garlic flavor.
Olive Oil: Use high-quality olive oil for a rich sauce.
Garlic: Minced to infuse the oil with a savory taste.
Red Pepper Flakes: Adds just a kick of heat! Use as much or as little as you’d like.
Salt and Pepper: Enhances all the flavors in this simple dish.
Shredded Parmesan Cheese: Gives the noodles the perfect cheesy finish.
How to Make Spaghetti Aglio E Olio
This recipe is a breeze to make! And it’s so delicious that your family will be very excited to see it at the dinner table! Pair it with my favorite Caesar salad and homemade garlic knots for an amazing Italian meal.
Boil the Noodles: Cook the pasta in salted water according to the package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving ½ cup of the pasta cooking water. Set aside.
Sauté: Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and red pepper flakes, cook, and stir for just a minute.
Make the Sauce: Whisk the pasta water into the oil and garlic sauce on the stove until they are well mixed.
Add Pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, stir, and cook for 3-5 minutes until the pasta has absorbed some of the liquid. Remove from heat, season with salt and pepper, and top with parmesan and parsley if desired.
Spaghetti Aglio E Olio Tips and Variations
I love how simple this recipe is. It makes me feel like I am in Italy! It’s simple but so flavorful. Here are some tips and ways to change it up to suit your taste!
Pasta Water: Using the pasta water in the sauce is important because the starch in the water left by the pasta will allow the water and oil to emulsify (mix). Regular water will separate from the oil.
Pasta Varieties to Use: For the pasta, I use regular spaghetti noodles, but you can use angel hair, fettuccine, or linguine!
For Less Heat: Red pepper flakes are optional, if you don’t like spice you can leave it out! If you like it more spicy, you can add more!
Flavor Tip: Since the star of this pasta is olive oil and garlic, I highly suggest using fresh garlic and high-quality olive oil for the best flavor.
How to Store Leftover Pasta Aglio e Olio
This is a great dish to make so you have quick and easy lunches throughout the week. Add some chicken, salmon, or shrimp to change it up. Here are my tips for storing and reheating leftover spaghetti aglio e olio!
Fridge: Store leftovers in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Reheat: I save about a cup of pasta water to use when reheating. The starchy water helps thin the sauce without breaking it. Reheat in the microwave in 20-30 second bursts, stirring each time. Add a little pasta water, a teaspoon or two at a time, as needed.
Freezer: Store in the freezer for up to 3 months.
More Delicious Pasta Recipes
I’m all about a simple pasta dinner! Ever since I got back from Italy, I can’t stop craving their pasta. Here are a few other family favs that you’re sure to love!
Cook the pasta in salted water according to the package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving ½ cup of the pasta cooking water. Set aside.
Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and red pepper flakes, cook, and stir for just a minute.
Carefully whisk the pasta water into the oil and garlic sauce on the stove until they are well mixed.
Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, stir, and cook for 3-5 minutes until the pasta has absorbed some of the liquid.
Remove from heat, season with salt, and pepper, and top with parmesan cheese, and parsley if desired.
A friend of mine once told me that pico de gallo when translated directly means rooster’s beak. I thought that was a pretty interesting name for something that didn’t really resemble anything close to a rooster’s beak. After some quick fact checking it’s true, but don’t let that stop you from making it!
There isn’t really anything to change from a traditional pico de gallo recipe, and all of the standard ingredients are here, including tomatoes, onions, garlic, and cilantro with some lime juice. There’s a serrano chili pepper to give it some heat, and a bit of salt to bring it all together.
Any time I’m having Mexican food I always whip up a batch of this pico de gallo. It’s so quick and easy, and most of the time I have these ingredients on hand already so it’s just a matter of minutes and it can be made while the other food is cooking.
It’s really just a matter of getting out the chef’s knife and getting to work dicing up the ingredients. Don’t use a blender or you’ll miss the best part of pico. It’s the bigger sizes of the ingredients that make it special, and help you taste each one separately and together at the same time.
The beauty of pico de gallo is that even though it’s borrowed from Mexican cuisine it can be used on a number of different foods. Basically if you have a dish that is lacking a bit in the flavor department, serve it with some pico on top or on the side. Whenever you want some extra flavor just take a bite of pico along with the main entree.
To make this extra Paleo you can be sure to use organic ingredients, like organic tomatoes and onions. Most major supermarkets will either contain an organic section or have an organic option right next to the conventional option. They may be a bit pricier, but for all of the chemicals you’re avoiding it’s worth it and it gets you closer to a caveman existence when everything was naturally chemical free.
One tip to enjoy your pico de gallo even more is to strain it right before you’re ready to use it. That’s because all of the ingredients that go into it are so watery. If you don’t drain the excess liquid you’ll end up with a watery mess, and when you put a spoonful on your food you’re going to water it down.
If you want to doctor up your pico de gallo, it’s easy enough to do. Some of my favorites include diced avocado, diced shrimp, and diced mango. These will change the taste and consistency of the pico depending on what you go with, and you can feel free to add in other ingredients as well. If you find one that works be sure to add it in the comments below.
The art of fashion is often at its most breathtaking when it becomes a vessel for storytelling, and CHANEL’s Métiers d’Art collections are a testament to this ethos. Since 2002, these annual showcases have transcended the traditional runway format, highlighting the extraordinary craft and savoir-faire of the artisans who breathe life into the Maison’s creative vision. At the heart of this preservation lies le19M, CHANEL’s hub in Paris dedicated to its Métiers d’Art—a sanctuary where embroidery, feather work, goldsmithing, and millinery flourish. Here, the traditions of craftsmanship are not merely honoured; they are elevated into the realm of art.
For the 2024/25 Métiers d’Art collection, CHANEL embarks on a poetic journey to Hangzhou, China, presenting a collection deeply rooted in the spirit of Gabrielle Chanel’s beloved Coromandel screens. These intricately lacquered panels adorned her Paris apartment and served as an enduring source of inspiration, reflecting her fascination with the East. Hangzhou’s West Lake—a UNESCO World Heritage site celebrated for its serene beauty and cultural resonance—provided an idyllic backdrop for unveiling this dreamlike collection.
As the models glided across runways designed to appear as they floated on the water, the collection unfurled as a love letter to artistry and exploration. With its blend of traditional Chinese aesthetics and CHANEL’s iconic codes, the show not only celebrated Gabrielle Chanel’s legacy but also underscored the Maison’s commitment to bridging cultures through timeless craftsmanship.
CHANEL Métiers d’Art 2024/25: A Dreamlike Showcase in Hangzhou
Nestled in the heart of Zhejiang Province, the historic city of Hangzhou became the latest destination for CHANEL’s much-anticipated Métiers d’Art 2024/25 show. The choice of location was anything but incidental. Hangzhou, known for its lush green landscapes and the legendary West Lake, has long been a muse for artists, poets, and travellers. A UNESCO World Heritage site, West Lake served as the show’s magical stage at nightfall, echoing the tranquillity and poetic charm of Gabrielle Chanel’s cherished Coromandel screens.
These lacquered Chinese screens, which adorned the walls of Gabrielle Chanel’s Paris apartment at 31 rue Cambon, are more than decorative objects; they reflect the designer’s fascination with the East. One screen, in particular, depicting West Lake, inspired the collection and the decision to hold this year’s show in Hangzhou. The result was a celebration of cultural dialogue, bridging the Maison’s storied Parisian roots with China’s artistic and historical richness.
The exclusive guest list included CHANEL ambassadors Tilda Swinton, Xin Zhilei, and Leah Dou, who played prominent roles in a Wim Wenders-directed short film released before the show. This cinematic introduction, blending the mystique of Coromandel screens with the ethereal beauty of Hangzhou, set the tone for an event that transcended fashion. Swinton, known for her avant-garde elegance, described the show as “a poetic voyage,” perfectly encapsulating its atmosphere.
CHANEL’s decision to bring its Métiers d’Art collection to China also signals a strategic emphasis on the region’s growing importance in the luxury market. With its mix of tradition and modernity, Hangzhou offered the perfect backdrop for a collection steeped in heritage yet forward-looking in its execution. This is particularly significant in a year of transition for the Maison, as it awaits the appointment of a new creative director following Virginie Viard’s departure in June 2024.
The choice of Hangzhou also highlights CHANEL’s commitment to celebrating the artisans behind the collection. By showcasing the work of its Maisons d’art in a city synonymous with craftsmanship and cultural heritage, CHANEL reinforces the importance of preserving and elevating artisanal skills. The artisans of le19M—including embroiderers, feather workers, goldsmiths, and milliners—played a central role in transforming the creative vision of the CHANEL studio into a collection that radiated artistry and innovation.
Ultimately, the Métiers d’Art 2024/25 show in Hangzhou wasn’t just about fashion—it was a symphony of culture, artistry, and history. Against the luminous backdrop of West Lake, CHANEL reaffirmed its ability to create moments that transcend the runway, offering a masterclass in how tradition and modernity can coexist in harmony. This choice of venue and inspiration stands as a powerful testament to the Maison’s dedication to exploring new horizons while staying rooted in its timeless legacy.
The Métiers d’Art 2024/25 Collection – A Masterpiece Unveiled
As dusk fell over Hangzhou’s West Lake, CHANEL unveiled the 2024/25 Métiers d’Art collection with an ethereal runway show that was as much a visual spectacle as it was a tribute to the Maison’s storied craftsmanship. The floating runways, designed to appear as though models were walking on water, set the stage for a collection steeped in poetic elegance and cultural resonance. Inspired by Gabrielle Chanel’s cherished Coromandel screens, the show blended Chinese artistry with CHANEL’s iconic codes, creating a seamless dialogue between tradition and modernity.
Key Looks and Features
The collection opened with dramatic long coats in midnight black tweed, setting a quiet, sophisticated tone. These were followed by a parade of silhouettes celebrating intricate detailing: phosphorescent braids, embroidered floral motifs, and envelope-shaped pockets. A palette of jade green, blush pink, and sky blue evoked the lacquered brilliance of the Coromandel screens, while the textures—satin, velvet, and tweed—spoke of refined luxury.
Signature CHANEL elements were reimagined with a contemporary twist. Tweed jackets, some cropped to reveal patterned bodysuits, were paired with pleated skirts, wrap trousers, and culottes, demonstrating an artful approach to layering. Tuxedo jackets lined with white satin and styled with culottes captured a modern elegance, while the recurring camellia motif—embroidered by Lesage—reminded viewers of CHANEL’s timeless floral emblem.
The collection also emphasized the theme of travel, with models carrying vanity cases, travel bags, and pillow-shaped handbags. Footwear took a bold turn, featuring thigh-high boots, mid-calf boots, and pointed slippers in black patent leather, courtesy of Massaro. The accessories were equally compelling, with medallions and cuffs crafted by Goossens, referencing ancient Chinese prunus flowers and fruits. Hats by Maison Michel and beanies and scarves added to the dreamy, romantic aesthetic.
Romantic Textures and Dreamlike Details
A recurring theme in the collection was the interplay between softness and structure. Pleats and frills, created by Lemarié and Lognon, added volume and movement to the garments. Cloud-shaped pearl necklaces and cushion-like embellishments evoked a dreamlike sensibility, while intricate embroidery and sequins provided a touch of luxury. This duality of craftsmanship—precision paired with poetry—underscored the artistry at the collection’s heart.
Every detail of the collection paid homage to the Maisons d’art that contributed to CHANEL’s unparalleled creations. Montex’s embroidery combined ancestral techniques with modern innovation, while Lesage’s tweed weavings blended unexpected materials to reimagine CHANEL’s iconic fabric. Goossens’ metalwork and Lemarié’s featherwork further elevated the collection, showcasing the exceptional skills preserved at le19M.
The Setting: A Cultural Symphony
The setting of West Lake added an almost mythical dimension to the show. Its shimmering waters, surrounded by temples and pagodas, mirrored the lacquered panels of Gabrielle Chanel’s Coromandel screens. The models seemed to glide across the lake, their silhouettes reflecting the serene beauty of the environment. This interplay between fashion and nature enhanced the sense of poetry that defined the collection.
CHANEL’s Métiers d’Art 2024/25 was more than a fashion show—an artistic performance. The blending of Chinese cultural heritage with Maison’s Parisian roots created a collection that was at once timeless and forward-thinking, a testament to CHANEL’s enduring ability to innovate while honouring its legacy. The night concluded with applause and the feeling that viewers had been part of a transcendent moment in fashion history.
Why This Collection is Impressive and What I Particularly Appreciate
The CHANEL Métiers d’Art 2024/25 collection is a masterclass in storytelling through fashion. Its ability to bridge cultural heritages—Parisian elegance and Chinese artistry—is remarkable. What makes this collection exceptional is its meticulous craftsmanship, with each piece reflecting the unparalleled savoir-faire of the Maisons d’art. The embroidered floral motifs by Lesage, the ethereal featherwork by Lemarié, and the gleaming accessories by Goossens collectively demonstrate the artistry at the heart of CHANEL’s creations.
We particularly appreciate how the collection marries tradition with innovation. Jade green, pink, and sky-blue hues—reminiscent of Coromandel screens—bring a fresh vibrancy to classic CHANEL designs. The travel-inspired accessories, from pillow handbags to vanity cases, capture the spirit of adventure while maintaining a luxurious sensibility. Additionally, the runway itself, floating over the tranquil waters of West Lake, provided a setting that perfectly mirrored the poetic beauty of the collection. It’s a testament to CHANEL’s unique ability to create fashion and immersive experiences that linger in the imagination.
The Stars Behind the Scenes: Maisons d’Art in the CHANEL Métiers d’Art 2024/25 Show
At the heart of every CHANEL Métiers d’Art collection lies the extraordinary craftsmanship of the Maisons d’Art, a constellation of specialized ateliers whose unparalleled skills transform creative visions into reality. For the 2024/25 Métiers d’Art show in Hangzhou, these artisans showcased their brilliance once again, contributing intricate details and innovative techniques to Gabrielle Chanel’s tribute to Coromandel screens. Let’s dive into the heritage and contributions of the key Maisons d’Art in this breathtaking collection.
Atelier Montex: Masters of Contemporary Embroidery
Inception and Expertise
Founded in 1939, Montex has become synonymous with embroidery that blends ancestral techniques with modern artistry. Using tools such as the Lunéville crochet hook and the century-old Cornely embroidery machine, Montex produces intricate and avant-garde patterns. Since joining CHANEL’s Métiers d’Art in 2011, Montex has consistently elevated the Maison’s collections with bold and innovative designs.
Contribution to the 2024/25 Collection
For this year’s Métiers d’Art show, Montex brought Coromandel screen motifs to life through elaborate floral embroidery. From jade green florals to shimmering metallic accents, their craftsmanship added depth and texture to the collection’s sweeping coats, jumpsuits, and tailored jackets. The precision of their needlework was particularly evident in the phosphorescent braids, which shimmered against the dark palette, creating a mesmerizing effect under the nightfall of West Lake.
Lesage: Embroiderers and Masters of Tweed Innovation
Inception and Expertise
Founded in 1924, Lesage has long been a cornerstone of haute couture embroidery, collaborating with the world’s most fabulous designers. A partner of CHANEL since 1983 and officially part of the Métiers d’Art family since 2002, Lesage is celebrated not only for its breathtaking embroidery but also for reinventing tweed, one of CHANEL’s most iconic materials. Lesage’s Parisian atelier is home to an unrivalled collection of over 75,000 embroidery samples and a school dedicated to passing on its craft.
Contribution to the 2024/25 Collection
Lesage’s contributions this year were nothing short of extraordinary. They created rich, multicoloured tweeds that incorporated unexpected materials, such as silk threads and metallic elements, echoing the lacquered brilliance of Coromandel screens. Their embroidery adorned jackets, dresses, and skirts with delicate floral patterns and shimmering sequins, embodying both luxury and elegance. The intricate bodysuits layered under cropped jackets were a standout example of their unparalleled expertise.
Lemarié: Feather Workers and Floral Alchemists
Inception and Expertise
Established in 1880, Lemarié has been a pioneer in feather artistry and floral embellishments. Renowned for handcrafting CHANEL’s signature camellia since the 1960s, Lemarié specialises in couture sewing techniques, pleating, and textile embellishments. Their draught-free workshops ensure that each feather and petal is treated with the utmost care.
Contribution to the 2024/25 Collection
For the Métiers d’Art 2024/25 show, Lemarié’s artistry was evident in the soft pleats and ethereal floral motifs adorned the collection. Feathers, meticulously sorted and curled, added an otherworldly touch to evening gowns and capes. Lemarié also created delicate smocks and inlays on skirts and blouses, adding dimension and movement. Their floral embellishments, inspired by the exotic blooms depicted on Coromandel screens, were a poetic nod to Gabrielle Chanel’s love of nature.
Goossens: Goldsmiths of Elegance
Inception and Expertise
Founded by Robert Goossens in 1950, the Goossens atelier has been crafting exquisite jewellery and objects that blend sculpture with goldsmithing. From Byzantine-inspired designs to modern creations, Goossens has long been a favourite of CHANEL, even designing furniture for Gabrielle Chanel’s apartment. The atelier became part of the Métiers d’Art in 2005.
Contribution to the 2024/25 Collection
Goossens’ jewellery and accessories for the Métiers d’Art show were inspired by Chinese iconography, including flowers, fruits, and the ancient prunus tree. Gold cuffs, medallions, and necklaces adorned with intricate engravings added a regal touch to the collection. The shimmering metallic tones complemented the collection’s dreamy aesthetic, bridging the traditional and contemporary gap.
Massaro: The Art of Handmade Shoes
Inception and Expertise
Since 1894, Massaro has been synonymous with bespoke shoemaking. Their collaboration with CHANEL began in 1957 with the creation of the two-tone shoe, a design that has since become iconic. Joining the Métiers d’Art in 2002, Massaro continues to craft footwear that combines elegance and comfort.
Contribution to the 2024/25 Collection
Massaro’s shoes were a statement in this year’s show, from patent leather thigh-high boots to mid-calf boots reminiscent of Gabrielle Chanel’s personal style. Pointed slippers and embellished boots added a sense of drama to the collection, perfectly complementing the tailored silhouettes. Each pair was meticulously handcrafted, a testament to Massaro’s dedication to perfection.
Maison Michel: The Hatmakers of CHANEL
Inception and Expertise
Founded in 1936, Maison Michel is renowned for its handcrafted hats, caps, and veils. With a history of hatmaking in Paris dating back to the 14th century, the atelier has preserved its savoir-faire while continually innovating. It became part of the Métiers d’Art in 1997 and is responsible for many of CHANEL’s iconic headpieces.
Contribution to the 2024/25 Collection
For this collection, Maison Michel designed beanies, berets, and scarves that captured the romanticism of the Coromandel-inspired theme. Each hat was meticulously handcrafted using techniques perfected over decades. The headpieces were adorned with braids, feathers, and flowers, enhancing the collection’s dreamlike aesthetic.
A Collective Triumph
The CHANEL Métiers d’Art 2024/25 collection celebrates artistry in its purest form. Each Maison d’Art brought its unique heritage and expertise to the table, contributing to a collection that was as rich in craftsmanship as it was in imagination. From the intricate embroidery of Montex and Lesage to the ethereal featherwork of Lemarié, the shimmering metalwork of Goossens, the bespoke shoes of Massaro, and the romantic headpieces of Maison Michel, the artisans behind le19M transformed Gabrielle Chanel’s vision into a poetic reality.
The Métiers d’Art show is not just a showcase of fashion—it is a reminder of the power of human creativity and the importance of preserving these timeless crafts. Against the backdrop of Hangzhou’s West Lake, these ateliers proved once again that their work is the beating heart of CHANEL’s legacy.
To Conclude,
The CHANEL Métiers d’Art 2024/25 collection is more than a tribute to craftsmanship—it celebrates the Maison’s ability to weave a narrative that transcends borders and generations. By drawing inspiration from Gabrielle Chanel’s Coromandel screens and presenting the collection at the iconic West Lake in Hangzhou, CHANEL underscored its commitment to bridging cultures while honouring its storied past. The collection’s harmonious blend of Eastern artistry and Parisian sophistication reflects CHANEL’s evolving global perspective, particularly its emphasis on the burgeoning Chinese luxury market.
The show itself was a sensory masterpiece, with each element—from the models seemingly walking on water to the intricate details of each silhouette—crafted to evoke a sense of wonder. Against the backdrop of Hangzhou’s tranquil beauty, CHANEL redefined what it means to celebrate artistry in fashion. This year’s Métiers d’Art collection also highlighted the importance of the artisans at le19M, whose exceptional skills ensure that CHANEL’s legacy remains as vibrant as ever.
As CHANEL stands on the cusp of a new era with an upcoming creative director, the Métiers d’Art 2024/25 collection poignantly reminds us of the Maison’s enduring commitment to craftsmanship, cultural dialogue, and innovation. It leaves us not only inspired by the artistry of the present but also hopeful for the future of CHANEL—a future where tradition continues to meet reinvention in the most elegant and unexpected ways.
José Amorim The author sourced the information for luxuryactivist.com. All content is copyrighted, and reproduction rights are not available. Images are for illustration purposes only.
Following Nikki Glaser‘s successful run hosting the 82nd Golden Globes, it appears the show’s producers want to bring her back for more. While much of the attention for the Golden Globes was on winners, like Emilia Perez and The Brutalist, and notable snubs, like Anora and Challengers, many agreed that it was a better show than the previous year, when comedian Jo Koy bombed on stage following a series of poorly timed jokes and attempted to throw the writers under the bus. Comedian Nikki Glaser, best known for her work on the Comedy Central Roast, was a bright spot for many, and just what the ceremony needed after years of controversy. Turns out the producers of the Golden Globes realize they might have a winner on their hands and are looking to repeat this success.
Following the Golden Globes, executive producer Glenn Weiss spoke with Variety about the show, and, regarding Glaser returning to host next year, said, “We absolutely had a great experience with her, and think that she would be great at this in the long term.” When asked if they had already spoken with the comedian about returning, Weiss responded, “Perhaps! I can’t talk officially for anything. I will say, as someone who produces and directs award shows, she really found her niche here, and I think it really worked out beautifully on this show. And I would love to see it continue.” Weiss spoke about what made Glaser such a great host for the Golden Globes, saying:
“Nikki, in my mind, home run. She really prepared. She did her homework. She’s been practicing material at clubs, sometimes four or five shows a night for a couple of weeks straight, working on this pretty hard since November. And when you have a host that’s that prepared and that dedicated and also not tone deaf, listening to what’s going on in our business and even in the room on the fly, she’s really good at this. And she proved herself to be a really good host. Part of what the Globes are is it’s a party atmosphere. It’s not a traditional, stuffyish kind of environment. We do want to be loose, people in the audience do have access to alcohol, and it’s meant to be fun and a party. And Nikki, her whole tone and and her way of being is really in line with what this show is. And I think she really scored very well last night.”
Unlike the Academy Awards, the Golden Globes have only recently featured hosts regularly in their ceremony. The ceremony was hostless until the 39th Golden Globes in 1982, when Robert Preston and Linda Gray co-hosted. Having a host was on and off for years, with 1996 to 2009 not featuring a host. Starting in the 2010s, the Globes tried to regularly feature a host, with comedian Ricky Gervais having hosted the most Golden Globes awards shows, with a total of five in 2010, 2011, 2012, 2016, and 2020. Tina Fey and Amy Poehler co-hosted together four times in 2013, 2014, 2015, and 2021.
Nikki Glaser Is the Perfect Host for the Golden Globes
Glaser’s performance at the Golden Globes might mark a new era for the awards show and a new long-running gig where she could become the face of the ceremony for a new generation of fans. She also made history by being the first solo female comedian to host the Golden Globes. Glaser was a bold choice, as her style of humor is a little edgier than awards shows tend to be, but one that paid off and helped the ceremony feel relevant. Despite the fact that Glaser herself lost the Best Performance in a Stand-Up Comedy or Television to Ali Wong, Glaser won the night in the end.
There were plenty of surprises and snubs this year, but the Golden Globes definitely got one thing right Sunday night.
Glaser being a fixture at the Golden Globes for the foreseeable future would also be a sharp contrast to the Academy Awards. While the ceremony was known for hosts like Bob Hope and Billy Crystal, the award show has struggled to find a host that can capture audience excitement for nearly a decade and a half. Jimmy Kimmel has hosted three Academy Award ceremonies, but they rarely generated a level of excitement from audiences. The Academy’s attempt to find the next face of the Academy Awards has been so tumultuous that they opted to go without a host for three years in a row, from 2019 to 2021.
