lucadelladora – After months of speculation, Chanel has officially announced Matthieu Blazy as its new artistic director, marking a pivotal moment in the fashion world. Blazy, who most recently served as the creative director of luxury Italian brand Bottega Veneta, steps into one of the most prestigious roles in the industry. As Chanel’s fourth head designer since its founding in 1910, he follows the iconic legacies of Gabrielle “Coco” Chanel, Karl Lagerfeld, and Virginie Viard. This limited lineage contrasts with Dior, established in 1946, which has had seven creative directors.
Bruno Pavlovsky, Chanel’s president of fashion, expressed enthusiasm for Blazy’s appointment in a press release. “I am delighted with Matthieu Blazy’s arrival,” Pavlovsky stated. “He possesses an audacious personality and a uniquely innovative approach to creation. I am confident he will honor Chanel’s heritage while driving the house into bold, exciting directions.”
Pavlovsky highlighted Blazy’s deep commitment to craftsmanship and exquisite materials, qualities that align with Chanel’s storied reputation. He emphasized Blazy’s ability to blend the brand’s historic codes with contemporary creativity through collaboration with Chanel’s studio, ateliers, and Maisons d’art.
Blazy’s appointment represents a significant shift for Chanel as it continues to evolve in the ever-competitive luxury fashion market. Known for his modern, inventive designs and dedication to artisan techniques, Blazy brings a fresh perspective that could redefine Chanel’s iconic aesthetic.
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Matthieu Blazy: The Visionary Behind Chanel’s New Era of Fashion
Matthieu Blazy, known for his innovative creativity, steps into the role of Chanel’s artistic director after a remarkable tenure at Bottega Veneta. The 40-year-old designer, who served over four years at the Italian luxury house—three as its creative director—earned acclaim for his visionary approach. Blazy’s collections blended elevated playfulness with distinct craftsmanship. Featuring signature trompe l’oeil designs that made leather resemble flannel shirts, denim jeans, and even paper grocery bags. His creative ingenuity translated into commercial success, as Bottega Veneta’s sales grew in the first half of 2024. Outperforming Kering’s other major brands like Yves Saint Laurent and Gucci.
Blazy, born in Paris with French-Belgian heritage, honed his craft at La Cambre visual arts school in Brussels. He gained experience through internships at Balenciaga under Nicolas Ghesquière and John Galliano. After graduating in 2007, he joined Raf Simons’ menswear team and later collaborated with Simons at Calvin Klein. Blazy’s résumé also includes positions at Maison Margiela and Céline, where he developed his sleek, sophisticated tailoring and innovative use of leather and accessories.
Blazy’s aesthetic, characterized by bold experimentation, contrasts with Chanel’s traditional quilting and bouclé. His appointment signals more than a stylistic update—it reflects Chanel’s commitment to innovation and long-term brand evolution. Chanel’s global CEO, Leena Nair, recently emphasized the importance of “shaping what’s next” for the iconic house.
By bringing Blazy on board, Chanel aims to bridge its storied heritage with a forward-looking approach. With his proven ability to balance artistry with commercial success, Blazy’s leadership is expected to usher Chanel into a new era, appealing to contemporary tastes while honoring its legacy. The fashion world eagerly anticipates how he will redefine Chanel’s identity.
Matthieu Blazy Ushers in New Era at Chanel as Louise Trotter Takes the Helm at Bottega Veneta
Virginie Viard’s departure from Chanel in June marked the end of an extraordinary chapter for the French luxury house. Viard, 62, served as artistic director for five years. He’s stepping into the role after the passing of Karl Lagerfeld in 2019. However, her journey with Chanel spanned over three decades. Starting as an intern in 1987, Viard climbed the ranks to become Lagerfeld’s trusted deputy. Their professional bond was so strong that Lagerfeld famously described her as “my right arm and my left arm.”
Matthieu Blazy, now stepping into the role of artistic director at Chanel. He expressed his excitement in a press release: “I am thrilled and honored to join the wonderful House of Chanel. I look forward to meeting all the teams and writing this new chapter together.” His appointment signals a new creative direction for the iconic brand, blending its timeless heritage with his innovative vision.
Meanwhile, Bottega Veneta, where Blazy served as creative director for three years, announced Louise Trotter as his successor. Trotter’s appointment marks a pivotal moment for the Italian luxury label as it looks to build on the success and acclaim garnered under Blazy’s leadership.
