An exceptional example of Karl Lagerfeld-era Chanel knitwear, this vintage Chanel Spring/Summer 2006 (06P) cardigan jacket translates the house's iconic tailored jacket vocabulary into an intricately textured, lightweight knit.
Rendered in a sophisticated mélange of ecru, cream, beige, blush pink, coral and metallic gold tones, the cardigan is constructed from a richly dimensional open-textured knit interwoven with multicolored yarns and shimmering metallic threads. Rows of petite sequins in soft pink, champagne and gold trace the lapels, front edges, cuffs, pockets, hem and coordinating belt, creating a subtle luminosity that shifts beautifully with the light.
The silhouette cleverly bridges Chanel's classic jacket and a relaxed cardigan. An exaggerated notched lapel collar frames the neckline, while the open front can be worn loose for an elongated, effortless silhouette or cinched at the waist using the original coordinating self-tie belt. Belt loops at the sides keep the sash positioned at the natural waist.
Two patch pockets sit at the hips and are finished with additional sequin embellishment. One pocket is accented by a petite gold-tone interlocking CC charm, an understated signature detail that rewards closer inspection.
Long sleeves terminate in substantial turn-back-style knit cuffs, while the fitted shoulders and gently shaped body give the otherwise relaxed knit a polished, jacket-like structure. The cardigan is unlined, allowing the elaborate construction and texture of the knit to remain lightweight and fluid.
The neutral palette is punctuated with blush and coral yarns and metallic highlights, giving the piece an unmistakably mid-2000s Chanel aesthetic while remaining remarkably wearable today.
Wear it belted over a silk camisole and trousers for an elegant evening interpretation, open over denim for a more relaxed look, or style it as a lightweight jacket over a dress. The combination of elaborate knit construction, sequins, metallic threads and iconic Chanel detailing makes this an especially collectible piece of Spring 2006 Chanel ready-to-wear.
Comparable documented examples from the Spring 2006 collection confirm this family of Chanel knits was produced in beige, gold, ecru and pink combinations with metallic fibers and sequin embellishment.
Designer
Chanel
Creative Director
Karl Lagerfeld
Collection
Spring/Summer 2006 / 06P
Era
2000s
Style
Belted cardigan / knit jacket / sweater jacket
Color
Ecru, cream, beige, blush pink, coral, champagne and metallic gold
Details
Textured multicolor knit construction
Metallic thread throughout
Pink, champagne and gold-tone sequin embellishment
Oversized notched lapel collar
Open-front silhouette
Original coordinating self-tie belt
Side belt loops
Two front patch pockets
Gold-tone interlocking CC pocket charm
Long sleeves
Wide embellished cuffs
Embellished lapels, front edges, pockets and hem
Unlined construction
Made during Karl Lagerfeld's tenure at Chanel
Composition
The composition tag is not pictured. Documented examples of this Spring 2006 knit design are listed as approximately 33% cotton, 26% rayon/viscose, 21% nylon/polyamide, 16% silk and 4% polyester. Composition should therefore be considered reference information unless confirmed by the garment's original care label.
Size & Fit
Shown on a US size 4/6 mannequin.
The knit construction provides some natural flexibility. Designed to be worn open or cinched with the coordinating belt.
Approximate measurements:
Shoulders: 15"–15.5"
Bust: approximately 34"–36" unstretched
Waist: approximately 32"–34" open; adjustable with belt
Hip/hem: approximately 36"
Sleeve length: approximately 23"–24"
Length, shoulder to hem: approximately 24"–25"
Belt width: approximately 2"
Belt length: approximately 65"–70"
Measurements are approximate and should be considered estimates due to the flexible knit construction and open-front silhouette.
Condition
Excellent vintage condition.
Little to no visible signs of wear consistent with age and gentle use. The knit presents beautifully, with the overall texture, coloration, sequin embellishment, trim and decorative details appearing exceptionally well preserved.
As with any intricately woven and embellished vintage knit, occasional subtle irregularities, tiny pulled fibers or movement within the yarn and embellishment may naturally occur and should not necessarily be considered defects.
Please review all photographs carefully as they form part of the condition description.
Styling / Season
Originally created for Spring/Summer 2006, this is an ideal transitional Chanel piece. Its open knit and unlined construction make it appropriate for spring and cool summer evenings, while the cream, blush and metallic palette transitions beautifully into early fall.
A highly collectible example of Chanel's early-2000s knitwear and an elevated alternative to the house's traditional tweed jacket.
