Paris – A year after taking the helm as Chanel’s artistic director, Matthieu Blazy delivered a runway that paid tribute to the house’s founder while emphasizing clothing for the many stages of a woman’s life. The show, staged at the Grand Palais, opened with model Dyanira Hurbuscher in a sheer bra‑inspired piece that echoed Edwardian corsetry but offered modern softness, echoing Gabrielle Chanel’s historic rejection of restrictive fashion.
From History to Everyday Wear
Blazy highlighted the brand’s archives by featuring a vintage 2.55 handbag from the Patrimoine collection, a nod that reappeared in the final look. In his notes, he explained the collection’s purpose: “Women become multiple selves throughout their lives, each identity leading to another. This is about the women within a woman, and about Gabrielle, who became Chanel.”
The early segment showcased whimsical tulle skirts, colorful patterns, detachable clown‑style collars and playful underwear—light, youthful pieces that set the tone for the narrative. These gave way to more practical attire for women balancing work and responsibilities: pinstripe trousers, soft tailoring, feather‑like floral brooches, and a re‑imagined men’s gilet cinched at the waist.
Milestones and Innovation
Later looks celebrated life’s milestones with silk 1930s‑style dresses, sequined gowns and an opulent black billowing dress. Signature Chanel tweed and skirt suits appeared throughout, but Blazy introduced “smocked tweed,” a stretchy, sportswear‑inspired take on the classic fabric. Many suits were presented without undergarments, signaling a shift from traditional, restrictive attire to designs meant to be “lightly as perfume.”
Bird motifs—swifts, swallows, cranes and geese—decorated invitations, garments, and even floated above the runway, inspired by Blazy’s holiday in Calabria, Italy, where he observed a natural bird reserve.
Celebrity Guests and Atmosphere
The event attracted stars such as Dua Lipa, Nicole Kidman and Pedro Pascal, who were seen dancing to Britney Spears’ “Gimme More.” Blazy, 42, infused the show with a millennial‑friendly soundtrack, underscoring his commitment to a fresh, fun atmosphere after a successful debut year.
At the finale, Blazy took a bow, waving to the audience before sprinting back to his team, arms wide open for what lies ahead. The collection, titled “Spring‑Summer 2027,” signals a forward‑looking vision for Chanel that honors its heritage while embracing modern women’s evolving roles.
Original reporting: El Paso News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
