Manchester’s historic Thomas Street makes way… for Chanel: Work begins to set up fashion giant’s multimillion-pound Métiers d’Art show on road home to merchant’s houses and local businesses now standing derelict

• Chanel hosts an annual Métiers d’Art catwalk showcasing its artisans’ work

Chanel’s multi-million pound Métiers d’Art show is under construction in Manchester after months of secrecy around its location, exciting fans who are desperate to get their hands on a ticket to the exclusive event.

A street in the northern quarter of the city has been cordoned off for the international catwalk and is due to be closed for up to a month ahead of the show on December 7.

Large metal structures have been pictured being erected on Thomas Street with cranes and constructors on the scene to build what appears to be a warehouse-like frame.

It is thought the structure could provide a canopy ready for one of the world’s most watched shows, after it was announced the 2023/2024 extravaganza would take place in the northern city earlier this year.

Until now, the venue and details of the Métiers d’Art catwalk have been kept a tightly-guarded secret – but according to local media, dozens of boxes with the show’s name emblazoned upon them have now been seen in the same area.

A street in the northern quarter of the city has been cordoned off for the international catwalk and is due to be closed for up to a month ahead of the show on December 7

Local businesses have reportedly been asked to sign non-disclosure agreements around the event

Businesses in the immediate vicinity have signed non-disclosure agreements to prevent them speaking about the event, Manchester Evening News reports. 

One business owner said they are having to close their doors on December 6 and 7, but they are being compensated for it.

‘It must be costing them a fortune,’ they added. 

Since road closures for the construction were announced, social media users have been speculating about the show and asking how they can secure tickets. 

Today large weatherproof sheets were seen being used to cover the structure ahead of preparations for next month’s event.

Workers on the sight said the structure will stretch from Tib Street to the High Street, with Smithfield Market also being used for the fashion event. 

Until now, the venue and details of the Métiers d’Art catwalk have been kept a tightly-guarded secret

Signs at the construction site, which is being patrolled by security teams, state the road will be closed until December 15.

Chanel has an annual Métiers d’Art collection which celebrates the many artisans and specialists which contribute to its fashion house.

It’s reported that Manchester’s northern quarter has been chosen due to its historic links to the Industrial Revolution and the clothing industry. 

Previous themes for the event have included ancient Egypt, Scotland and the 1960s – but this year’s theme has not yet been announced.

Previous events have been held in cities such as Paris and Rome, although last year’s edition was in Dakar, Senegal.

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