Matthieu Blazy, the newly appointed creative director of Chanel, has introduced a sense of fantasy to the fashion house’s haute couture collection for Spring Summer 2026. This debut follows his successful ready-to-wear launch and the Métiers d’Art collection in New York. The latest presentation was held in the iconic Grand Palais, where a whimsical atmosphere was created with towering sculptural mushrooms and soft pink hues.
The collection showcases Blazy’s vision of movement, delicacy, and emotional ease. It begins with a reimagined version of the classic Chanel suit, featuring sheer silk mousseline and ethereal layers. The tailored pieces are designed to allow transparency and construction to take center stage, creating a delicate yet precise aesthetic. The garments are crafted to move fluidly on the body, highlighting their craftsmanship as they shift.
Exploring Personal and Intimate Details
Throughout the collection, the surfaces of the clothing evoke a sense of intimacy. Embroidered motifs and symbolic elements are subtly incorporated into linings, pockets, and chains. This design approach blurs the boundaries between the interior and exterior of the garments, giving them a lived-in quality rather than a mere decorative flair. Tailored silhouettes emphasize cut and proportion, particularly in deep black ensembles that showcase the skill of Chanel’s ateliers.
Blazy’s collection also draws inspiration from avian themes, which emerge more through texture and movement than overt embellishment. Pleats, woven fabrics, and layered materials mimic the lightness of plumage, enhancing the garments’ flow. As the collection transitions from restrained designs to richer surface textures, it achieves a balance between control and creativity.
A Confident Display of Couture Craftsmanship
The overall impression of the collection is one of fleeting confidence, characterized by precision without heaviness. The designs reflect Blazy’s commitment to reinterpreting Chanel’s iconic codes while embracing a narrative that feels both imaginative and accessible. This fresh perspective highlights the enduring allure of haute couture, inviting viewers to experience a captivating blend of fantasy and craftsmanship.
As Matthieu Blazy continues to build his own Chanel universe, his debut haute couture collection stands as a testament to both the legacy of the fashion house and the potential for new storytelling within its storied history.
