Matthieu Blazy shines in Stellar Chanel debut

October 07, 2025 / 11:41 AM

Sharjah24 - AFP: New Chanel designer Matthieu Blazy captivated audiences at Paris Fashion Week on Monday with his highly anticipated debut collection. Beneath glowing planet installations in the Grand Palais, Blazy presented a sumptuous Spring-Summer 2026 line that merged elegance with modern flair.

Subtle innovation over radical change

Despite the cosmic theme, Blazy avoided a dramatic overhaul of Chanel’s legacy. Instead, he refined its signature tweeds, blouses, and suits, incorporating bold touches such as masculine silhouettes, statement jewelry, and vibrant eveningwear. His approach echoed Coco Chanel’s original inspiration from men’s fashion.

Praise from Chanel’s leadership

Chanel’s fashion head Bruno Pavlovsky lauded Blazy’s “discreet personality” and his deep dive into Gabrielle Chanel’s legacy. “He continued playing with the brand’s distinctive principles while allowing himself the freedom we need,” Pavlovsky said, highlighting the designer’s balance between respect and reinvention.

Star-studded front row

Celebrities including Penélope Cruz, Kendall Jenner, Pedro Pascal, Nicole Kidman, and Ayo Edebiri filled the front row. Kidman, newly appointed as a Chanel ambassador, opted for a simple white shirt and wide-leg jeans, embodying effortless sophistication.

Critical acclaim

Early reviews were glowing, with Harrods’ Simon Longland calling the show “a debut that was nothing short of a masterclass.” Chanel, the world’s second-largest luxury fashion house, remains a dominant force in global style.

Blazy’s Lineage and the new era of fashion

Appointed creative director last December, Blazy became only the fourth person to lead Chanel, following Coco Chanel, Karl Lagerfeld, and Virginie Viard. Known for revitalizing Bottega Veneta, Blazy now faces the challenge of steering Chanel beyond the Lagerfeld era.

A wave of new creative appointments

His debut coincides with a broader generational shift in fashion. Fellow designer Jonathan Anderson made waves with his first Dior women’s show, while Pierpaolo Piccioli impressed at Balenciaga after succeeding Demna, now at Gucci.

Industry hopes amid economic slowdown

As luxury brands navigate slower Chinese demand, US tariffs, and economic uncertainty, Chanel’s leadership hopes fresh creative energy will rekindle sales. The brand reported a 30% drop in operating profit in 2024 to $4.48 billion, with revenues down 4.3%.

Blazy’s debut, blending reverence and renewal, signaled a bright new chapter for Chanel’s storied legacy.