Chanel Fall Winter 2025-26: A Ribbon-Themed Prelude to the Blazy Era

Chanel’s Fall Winter 2025-2026 show, closing Paris Fashion Week, was a moment of transition and anticipation. With the recent anno...

Chanel’s Fall Winter 2025-2026 show, closing Paris Fashion Week, was a moment of transition and anticipation. With the recent announcement of Matthieu Blazy as the new artistic director of fashion activities, the collection served as a bridge between the house’s current direction and the highly anticipated Blazy era.

The show revolved around a ribbon theme, evident in the invitation and set design, which featured a monumental black ribbon installation. This motif was woven throughout the collection in various forms: matte satin ribbons adorned military-inspired tweed jackets, sheer organza tunics showcased bow-secured balloon sleeves, and ribbon-printed dresses and pearl-edged bow cutouts added a touch of whimsy.

Beyond the ribbons, the collection explored scale, proportion, and optical illusions. Illusion tulle layers created ghostly outlines on tweed suits, while all-over looks played with fabric superpositions for surrealist effects. A standout cherry red tweed ensemble—complete with a jacket, skirt, pants, boater hat, gloves, handbag, and boots—exemplified this bold approach.

The collection also paid homage to Karl Lagerfeld’s playful spirit, featuring visual gags like a miniature egg-sized minaudière and oversized pearl necklaces worn as crossbody bags. Giant pearls adorned the heels of black boots, adding a touch of eccentricity.

While the collection catered to Chanel’s loyal clientele with reverse monochrome twinsets and comfort-focused designs, some elements, such as Pierrot smocks and baggy sweater dresses, felt dated compared to the season’s emphasis on sensuality.

As the fashion world eagerly awaits Matthieu Blazy’s creative direction, this collection marked a transitional moment for Chanel, blending tradition with a hint of what’s to come.