Chanel has appointed Matthieu Blazy, a 40-year-old Franco-Belgian designer, as its new artistic director, succeeding Virginie Viard. Previously at Bottega Veneta, Blazy is recognized for his innovative designs and commitment to craftsmanship. He will oversee Chanel’s Haute Couture, Ready-to-Wear, and Accessories lines starting in 2025. His unique vision is expected to reinvigorate the brand amid a slowing luxury market, building on the legacy of Karl Lagerfeld.
Chanel Welcomes Matthieu Blazy as New Artistic Director
In a highly anticipated move in the fashion industry, Chanel has appointed Matthieu Blazy, a talented designer in his forties, as its new artistic director. This announcement, made on Thursday, concludes months of speculation about who would take on this prestigious role.
The 40-year-old Franco-Belgian designer joins Chanel after a successful tenure at Bottega Veneta, where he served as the artistic director since 2021. Blazy’s appointment comes as a surprise to many, as he was selected over several more prominent figures in the fashion world, including Hedi Slimane, Simon Porte Jacquemus, and Pierpaolo Piccioli, the former creative head of Valentino.
Responsibilities and Vision for the Future
Taking the reins at Chanel is no small feat, especially following the legacy of Karl Lagerfeld, who dominated the brand for over 30 years. After Lagerfeld’s passing in 2019, Virginie Viard briefly led the house until her unexpected departure in June. Blazy expressed his excitement about joining Chanel, stating, “I am delighted and honored to join the wonderful house of Chanel.” His exit from Bottega Veneta was marked by accolades for his “visionary creativity,” as the brand welcomed Louise Trotter as his successor.
Starting in 2025, Blazy will oversee Chanel’s Haute Couture, Ready-to-Wear, and Accessories lines. The brand’s owner, Alain Wertheimer, and CEO, Leena Nair, regard him as “one of the most talented creators of his generation,” believing that his unique vision will enhance Chanel’s energy and solidify its position as a leader in the luxury market.
As the luxury sector experiences a slowdown after years of strong growth, Blazy’s innovative approach and commitment to craftsmanship are expected to bring fresh energy to the brand. Bruno Pavlovsky, Chanel’s president of fashion activities, praised Blazy’s “bold personality” and his dedication to artisanal techniques and exquisite materials.
During his time at Bottega Veneta, Blazy made a significant impact with his modern interpretation of the brand’s signature “intreccio” weaving technique. His collections featured striking pieces, such as soft leather jeans designed to mimic denim and sculptural thigh-high boots crafted from a single piece of skin. His playful renaming of classic bags, like “Sardine” and “Andiamo,” showcased his creativity while honoring the brand’s heritage.
Blazy’s innovative spirit is also evident in his last Spring-Summer collection at Bottega Veneta, which celebrated childhood through oversized dresses and whimsical designs. His ability to blend classic styles with contemporary flair has garnered attention and admiration throughout the fashion community.
A passionate advocate for contemporary art and design, Blazy has collaborated with notable figures such as Italian designer Gaetano Pesce and Cassina. His artistic journey began in Paris, where he studied at the prestigious La Cambre visual arts school in Brussels. After catching the eye of Raf Simons, he began his career in fashion that eventually led him to work with iconic brands like Céline and Calvin Klein.
Raf Simons, who now serves as co-creative director at Prada, once described Blazy as a “genius of human relations” and a bold creative force willing to push boundaries. As Matthieu Blazy steps into his new role at Chanel, the fashion world eagerly awaits to see how his vision will shape the brand’s future.