The much-anticipated Chanel Spring 2026 Ready-to-Wear Collection previewed at the Grand Palais in Paris, marking a pivotal moment for the iconic brand. Creative director Matthieu Blazy orchestrated an extraordinary show on Monday night, captivating attendees with a blend of spectacle and intimacy.
Celebrities and Venue Transformation
The event drew a glamorous lineup, featuring brand ambassador Nicole Kidman alongside her daughters, Sunday Rose and Faith Margaret. Other notable attendees included Margot Robbie, Penélope Cruz, Ayo Edebiri, and Pedro Pascal. The Grand Palais was transformed into a celestial wonderland, symbolizing the “Universe of Chanel,” complete with glossy black floors and giant orbs that evoked a dreamlike atmosphere.
Innovative Design and Inspirations
At precisely 8:14 p.m., Blazy showcased his vision for Chanel, taking the audience on a journey through the brand’s rich heritage. His debut collection included a checked wool pantsuit inspired by founder Gabrielle “Coco” Chanel’s eclectic style, notably her practice of borrowing clothing from her lover, Arthur “Boy” Capel.
- Oversized white tuxedo shirts paired with flowing black skirts.
- Cropped striped shirts combined with scarlet ballgowns adorned with feathery accents.
Blazy emphasized Chanel’s duality, showcasing both androgynous tailoring and seductive eveningwear. Key color palettes featured beige, ivory, and classic black, paying homage to the centenary of Art Deco celebrated in Paris. He also drew inspiration from Chanel’s minimalist perfume packaging, translating it into stunning clothes, including drop-waisted tunics and textured knits.
Textural Exploration and Signature Items
In a bold move, Blazy revisited Chanel’s iconography in unexpected forms. His interpretation of the timeless quilted handbag, known as the 2.55, stripped the accessory down to its essence. He played with textures, altering chains and materials to create a sense of generational legacy.
The designer faced particular challenges with the tweed suit, presented in frayed styles reminiscent of Chanel’s carefree approach to fashion. He reimagined these classic pieces in oversized silhouettes, intentioned to evoke both nostalgia and modernity.
A Message of Unity and Freedom
Blazy’s vision for the collection transcended fashion. He sought to convey a message of freedom and universal connection, stating, “We all look at the same sky. We all see the stars.” His artistic direction aimed to blend beauty and enjoyment seamlessly into wearable art.
The collection concluded with model Awar Odhiang, who showcased a stunning ivory silk T-shirt paired with a vibrant ball skirt, eliciting an exuberant response from the audience. Blazy’s forward-thinking designs are set to position Chanel into a fresh, exhilarating orbit within the fashion cosmos.
