Written by Naomi Pang, Edited by Ella Caverson
When thinking about classic Parisian fashion, there is one brand that comes to mind, and that is Chanel. From its iconic interlocking “C”s logo to its classic flap bags, Chanel’s pieces have been a staple in the fashion scene for a century. In the recent Paris Fashion Week, the fashion world saw a new era for the brand. Set in the Grand Palais, the show exhibited Matthieu Blazy’s debut collection for Spring/Summer 2026.
From the setting alone, it was immediately clear that this was not a typical Chanel fashion show. Upon arriving, attendees walked into a galactic universe, as the show displayed an illuminated solar system. The runway was decorated with colourful planets placed in front of a black backdrop covered with stars.
One thing I immediately noticed was how the collection was so vibrant and bright, which was very fitting for the spring and summer seasons. The vivid colours of orange, yellow, and red accompanied the galactic theme while bringing a youthful, lively energy to Chanel’s traditionally neutral palette.
While Blazy brought a new vision to Chanel, his debut collection paid homage to the timeless signature identifiers of the brand. This included redesigned tweed jackets and leather bags. This refreshing take infused heritage with contemporary fashion.
Blazy also incorporated a variety of textures into the pieces. Through his use of feathers, fringes, and frayed edges, it was reminiscent of styles he had brought from his time as the Creative Director at Bottega Veneta. These elements made the pieces visually striking, bringing in more depth and movement to the fabrics.
The accessories of the show were another captivating detail. The 2.55 bag was reintroduced in Blazy’s collection, sported in multiple runway looks. The bag was unclasped and intentionally creased, giving the impression of an item well-loved. The show also included a few other iconic bags of the fashion house, including the classic quilted leather tote and the iconic flap. Suede was a standout material in the collection, with many of the bags crafted with the soft, velvety feel.
Every outfit was completed with an elegant, bold shoe, showcasing many variations of Chanel’s signature two-toned heels. Some were redesigned with a slingback design, while others featured pops of red and brown. Classic styles of the heels also made an appearance, including the beige body with black toes.
The incorporation of fringes, frayed edges, and scrunched bags gave the feel of authenticity and lived-in luxury—a refreshing decision, given the uprise in impractical designs in haute couture. The raw and worn-in aesthetic added a practicality, adding grit to Chanel’s impeccably sharp silhouettes.
Under a sky full of glowing planets, Blazy’s debut showed the world a new chapter for Chanel, becoming the most discussed show this season. By effectively blending legacy and evolution, Blazy has rejuvenated the brand, and we can’t wait to see where he takes Chanel next.