Chanel Transforms Runway into Fairytale Jungle: Matthieu Blazy’s Enchanted AW 26/27 Collection
Since Matthieu Blazy assumed creative leadership at Chanel, he has approached the iconic fashion house with a sense of quiet confidence. Rather than opting for a radical rebranding, Blazy has chosen to deepen the legacy of Gabrielle Chanel. His focus centers on refining the maison’s timeless codes while introducing a modern perspective shaped by craftsmanship, functionality, and contemporary femininity. His work underscores a profound respect for Chanel’s heritage, illustrating that the future of the brand lies not in forsaking its past but in allowing its icons to evolve organically.
A Magical Presentation
During the Paris Haute Couture Fashion Week for Autumn/Winter 26/27, Chanel concluded the second day with a show that transcended traditional runway expectations, resembling more of a fable. For his second haute couture collection, Blazy moved away from the whimsical toadstool woodland of his January debut to create a dreamscape that seemed to envelop Gabrielle Chanel’s own enchanting Parisian apartment.
Chanel also released a brief animated teaser that offered insights into this artistic direction. The whimsical and cinematic nature of the teaser set the tone for a collection focused on themes of growth, transformation, and an element of magical realism. The narrative thread intertwined with the classic tale of “Jack and the Beanstalk.” According to Blazy, the inspiration arose from a book of fairytales that once belonged to Gabrielle Chanel, prompting a contemplation of her life as a myth of reinvention.
A Jungle Aesthetic
The Grand Palais was transformed into a verdant jungle, reminiscent of Gabrielle Chanel’s own gilded apartment. Vines climbed through the rafters, while golden chairs were nestled amid lush greenery—an atmosphere that Blazy likened to the film “Jumanji.” The collection debuted with a focus on tweed suits, soft florals, and bold checks, accompanied by boxy jackets adorned with flower-topped headpieces.
As the show progressed, texture became the centerpiece. Ostrich feathers appeared engulfed in soft layers, while sheer lilac- and blush-hued gauzy vests added an ethereal quality. Emphasizing nature-inspired motifs, several dresses featured spiral cuts designed to mimic climbing plants. The show concluded with a striking black dress, referred to as Blazy’s “revenge dress,” reflecting the inception of Chanel’s enduring legacy.
Story-Driven Creations
Two seasons into Blazy’s tenure at Chanel, a discernible pattern emerges in his collections: they are narrative-driven and embody wearable art. The Autumn/Winter 26/27 Haute Couture collection delved deeper into a fairytale theme, blooming beautifully to demonstrate that under Blazy’s leadership, Chanel’s couture continues to evolve while retaining its essence.
As reported by emirateswoman.com, the collection encapsulates a blend of tradition and innovation, promising that the spirit of Chanel remains vibrant and influential within the fashion landscape.
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Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Supplied
