Attending a couture show may be a 'once-in-a-lifetime' moment, but the choreography of it all can be chaotic. Where to stay? What to wear? What are the pre-show rituals? We enlisted model Jen Ceballos (of the @endlesslyloveclub fame) who was game to answer these most pressing questions as she prepped for the Chanel FW25 Couture Show. Here, the our classic HommeGirls HG20 Questionnaire... Chanel Edition.
HG 20: CHANEL EDITION
First stop when you arrive in Paris?
As soon as I land in Paris, I head straight to a French pharmacy. I find it comforting browsing the well-curated shelves — I always stock up on cult favorites and replenish anything I’ve run out of. The French just get skincare right.
Where are you staying?
I’m staying at Hotel Mayfair Paris — it’s elegant and intimate, and its location near the Chanel boutiques on Rue Cambon couldn’t be more perfect. It feels like the heart of Parisian fashion is just outside my window.
First Chanel memory?
My earliest Chanel memory is watching my Mom apply her Chanel No. 5 before going out. The scent felt like a final, transformative touch — it was grace in a bottle. That was the moment I understood that Chanel wasn’t just a brand, it was a ritual, a story, a mood.
Pre-Show ritual?
Before a show, I take a few quiet minutes to center myself — warm drink, take some deep breaths, and mentally visualize the energy I want to bring into the space. It’s less about appearance and more about feeling aligned and present. I also like to do my own makeup, usually sitting on the floor — it grounds me and keeps the moment feeling calm and familiar.
Room service order?
I usually keep it simple and healthy — something like steamed vegetables with eggs or grilled salmon. But being in Paris, I can just as easily be tempted by a perfectly cooked steak-frites. There’s something so indulgent and satisfying about enjoying a classic French dish in the comfort of a hotel robe.
Chanel Beauté must-haves?
Everything from the SUBLIMAGE collection — I swear by the texture, the scent, the way it makes my skin feel like silk. It’s skincare and self-care in one
No.5 or Mademoiselle?
No.5. The older I get, the more I understand its depth. It’s timeless and bold — like stepping into a room with quiet confidence.
Describe your look?
I went for an effortless Parisian mood—crochet knit tank, high-waisted Chanel tweed mini skirt, and classic black slingback heels. My navy quilted Chanel top-handle bag tied it all together. I kept the jewelry simple: gold bangles and delicate necklace. It felt feminine and strong—very Chanel.
Can't leave the hotel without?
Chanel lipstick. It’s the final step before walking out the door, even if I’m just going downstairs.
In your bag?
A film camera for spontaneous captures, my wallet, a Chanel compact mirror, and a few bandages—because heels in Paris demand them.
Who were your seatmates?
Amy Julliette Lefévre and Xenia Adonts. Stylish, lovely, and so warm—dream seatmates.
Which celebrity do you wish you were sitting next to?
Vanessa Paradis. She’s an icon in every sense. I feel like she’d have the most incredible stories and an even better scent.
Five things you loved from the show?
The sharp tailoring
Layered textures—tweed, lace, silk leather boots and shiny details.
The set design
Location
Seeing how each guest interpreted Chanel in their own way
Favorite look?
My favorite look from the show was a layered gown in white — almost dreamlike in its movement. Over it was a dramatic full-length coat with rich texture and volume. It carried an energy of quiet strength — graceful, but with undeniable presence.
Hot Tea: any gossip overheard at the show?
It was actually my first time overhearing fashion gossip in French — and I liked it more! Très chic, very cryptic, and definitely involved someone being invited to the show , then uninvited — oops! But everyone stayed graceful, as always.
Fashion hot take?
Quiet luxury is cute, but statement fashion never died—it just waits for the right moment. A bold bag or an unexpected silhouette always wins.
After-show plans?
Back to the hotel, straight into something cozy. Ordered Deliveroo and had dinner on the floor. The post-show wind-down is sacred.
Travel-home look?
Baggy jeans, an oversized tee, sneakers, and a baseball cap to hide the post-show exhaustion. Comfort is key.
Airport snacks?
Chips and Coke Zero—always.
Where are you going after this?
I’ll be home for a bit to reset… but exciting things are coming.
July 2025