Chanel has named 40-year-old Franco-Belgian designer Matthieu Blazy as its new creative director, selecting him over industry heavyweights like Hedi Slimane. Blazy, who earned acclaim as the head of Bottega Veneta since 2021, has been recognized as a rising star in the fashion world. His appointment marks a career-defining moment as he becomes only the fourth creative director in Chanel’s storied history.
Blazy’s success at Bottega Veneta showcased his ability to modernize a classic brand with daring creativity and expanded product lines. He introduced fragrances, high-end jewelry, and updated the brand’s signature woven leather designs with hit products like the Kalimero and Sardine bags. His innovative $7,000 leather jeans, designed to look like denim, and his headline-grabbing Milan Fashion Week shows made him a standout in the luxury fashion industry.
At Chanel, Blazy will succeed Virginie Viard, who led the brand since 2019 following the legendary Karl Lagerfeld’s passing. While Viard helped grow Chanel’s sales steadily, Blazy faces the challenge of steering the nearly $20 billion-a-year brand into its next chapter, blending creative innovation with commercial viability.
Bruno Pavlovsky, Chanel’s fashion president, highlighted Blazy’s creativity and humility, calling him part of a “new generation.” Chanel’s family owners, Alain and Gerard Wertheimer, were reportedly drawn to Blazy’s loyalty and long-term vision, key traits for the privately held company’s measured approach to leadership transitions.
Blazy’s career began after studying at La Cambre in Brussels, where he worked under Belgian fashion icon Raf Simons. His journey took him through prestigious brands like Maison Margiela, Celine, and Calvin Klein. A pivotal moment came in 2014 when his talent was publicly praised by iconic fashion journalist Suzy Menkes, propelling him into the spotlight.
Known for his modest demeanor, jeans-and-T-shirt style, and love for art, Blazy is a heavy smoker and close friend of Simons. Raised in Paris in an intellectually stimulating family, he draws inspiration from his eclectic upbringing and early rebellious nature.
Now tasked with shaping Chanel’s future, Blazy must balance creative edge with wearable designs on an unprecedented scale. Despite the challenges, he steps into the role as one of fashion’s brightest talents, ready to redefine an iconic brand.
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