Inside the Grand Palais in Paris, an extraordinary scene unfolded at Chanel’s latest show. Massive beanstalks climbed to the ceiling, and vivid flowers filled the space. Tilda Swinton, Michelle Yeoh, and Catherine Deneuve were among the many distinguished guests in attendance.
This unique setting was the vision of designer Matthieu Blazy, inspired by a leather-bound book of fairy tales he discovered in Gabrielle Chanel’s old apartment. Blazy, who joined Chanel from Bottega Veneta, is relatively new to the role. His influence, however, is already evident.
Reflecting on Chanel’s life, Blazy found parallels to fairy tales. He likened her rise from a convent orphanage to fashion royalty to ‘Jack and the Beanstalk’.
‘I started to wonder, was Gabrielle Chanel’s life a fairy tale?’ Blazy said.
The fashion show embodied these stories. A sheer Chanel suit opened the collection, with embroidery resembling tiny bean shoots. Dresses featured vines and shoes sported curling designs. There were subtle hints of classic tales like Goldilocks and Puss in Boots. Inside the garments, hidden details awaited discovery, such as painted linings and silk to-do lists. Blazy’s designs balanced whimsy with practicality.
Blazy focused on creating garments suitable for everyday life. Simple yet elegant pieces included a sharply cut coat, a red sequined dress, and an understated black tunic with trousers. This approach echoed Chanel’s style, where simplicity makes an impactful statement.
Models of all ages showcased Blazy’s creations, reinforcing his vision. The finale featured a stunning black off-the-shoulder dress, signifying Chanel’s independent spirit, as she never married.
The star-studded audience, including Swinton, Pedro Pascal, Yeoh, Lupita Nyong’o, Deneuve, and Vanessa Paradis, witnessed a theatrical display. Blazy’s work left them contemplating the realities of everyday life, as symbolized by discreet details in his designs.