11 March 2025
CHANEL presented a beautiful Fall-Winter 25/26 RTW collection, looks inspired by one of the houses most iconic codes: a ribbon. Tied in a bow, flowing freely or in white wrapped around a black box, the ribbon is something well associated with CHANEL and with this collection we experienced how a ribbon can be used to the full extent. It’s important to remember that until Matthieu Blazy takes over the creative direction of the studio in April (and presents his first collection for CHANEL in October), collections are being designed by the in-house Fashion Creation Studio. And their assignment is clear: take the CHANEL codes, reference the heritage, and make it pretty. They have yet to miss.
In a very dreamlike manner and set against a floating 368 meter long by 20 meter high black structural ribbon runway (designed by Willo Perron) models paraded wearing classic CHANEL silhouettes. Tweed suits, a multitude of bags, elegant evening gowns and playful accessories were all on display, featuring the ribbon, the bow, the pearl and the camellia.
image credits: CHANEL, gorunway.com
What made the collection beautifully interesting was the take on proportions and seemingly unconventional use of the materials. Ribbons covering an entire ankle length skirt, sashaying as you strut. Billowing bows affixed to the collar of blouses, dresses and jackets. Oversized pearls as the heel of a boot or as a crossbody bag. Layered pearl necklaces cascading to just above the knee. A camellia patterned lace, floor length robe-style jacket. Sheer elements were also largely on display, shown as flowy dresses overtop structured tweed skirts, jackets and even pant suits. It was a juxtaposition that added to the dreamlike quality of the collection. The shiny leather jackets were also a favourite, offered in various styles from blouson with matching pants to trench, they incorporated an edginess to the whimsy.
Another delight was the bags – this is CHANEL, of course! From micro to maxi, there was quite a selection. Classics were present but many new silhouettes appeared. Standouts included an oversized quilted pouch with front flap and interlocking CC clasp and a powder pink east/west flap bag with top handle.
Overall, the collection was presented in true CHANEL style, and as we await Matthieu Blazy’s CHANEL, we’re here for every reinvention of the classic “CHANEL-isms” the Creation Studio presents.
image credits: CHANEL
image credits: gorunway.com
image credits: CHANEL