Closing out Paris Fashion Week, Chanel’s Fall/Winter 2025-2026 collection was more than just a showcase of exquisite craftsmanship—it was a bridge between the brand’s current identity and the much-anticipated era under Matthieu Blazy, the newly appointed artistic director.
At the heart of the show was a ribbon motif, a theme carried through from the invitation to the grand black ribbon installation that set the stage. This elegant detail was woven throughout the collection: matte satin ribbons accented structured tweed jackets, sheer organza tunics featured bow-secured balloon sleeves, and ribbon prints and pearl-trimmed bow cutouts added an air of whimsy.
Beyond the ribbons, the collection played with scale, proportion, and optical illusions. Illusion tulle overlays gave classic tweed suits an ethereal effect, while layered fabrics created surrealist silhouettes. A standout moment came in the form of a cherry red tweed ensemble, complete with a matching jacket, skirt, pants, boater hat, gloves, handbag, and boots—a bold statement in head-to-toe monochrome.
The show also paid homage to Karl Lagerfeld’s playful legacy, incorporating quirky details such as a miniature egg-shaped minaudière and oversized pearl necklaces worn crossbody. Even the footwear reflected this eccentricity, with giant pearls embedded into the heels of sleek black boots.
While the collection remained faithful to Chanel’s signature aesthetic—offering monochrome twinsets and relaxed silhouettes—some pieces, like Pierrot-inspired smocks and oversized sweater dresses, felt somewhat out of sync with the season’s more sensual trends.
As the fashion world eagerly anticipates Matthieu Blazy’s creative vision, this collection served as a farewell to one chapter and a glimpse into the next, blending Chanel’s timeless codes with hints of the transformation to come.
