Chanel’s Latest Collection Embraces the Low-Rise Revival Under Matthieu Blazy
The fashion landscape of the 2020s has been defined by a dramatic shift toward relaxed silhouettes and dramatically lowered waistlines. At Chanel’s recent presentation, Matthieu Blazy embraced this movement wholeheartedly, showcasing designs that featured dramatically dropped waists, frequently emphasized with strategic belt placement. This aesthetic choice paid homage to 1920s flapper fashion while offering a contemporary interpretation of the athletic-inspired designs that Gabrielle Chanel both created and personally favored.
Set against the sparkling backdrop of the Grand Palais, complete with a vibrant light installation reminiscent of construction toys, the show opened to the nostalgic beats of Lady Gaga’s “Just Dance.” Blazy built upon his previous successful elements, including decorative feather brooches, vibrant tweed fabrics, and statement handbags. However, the central focus remained on dramatically repositioning the waistline, achieved through elongated sweater vests paired with athletic pleated skirts in both mini and midi lengths. Even seemingly simple pieces, like an ivory dress, featured pronounced Basque waistlines adorned with elaborate fabric flourishes.
The runway featured notable appearances from newly appointed house ambassador and internet personality Bhavita Mandava, who wore an exceptionally long quarter-zip garment, alongside Alex Consani in a sequin-covered coordinated ensemble. The casting also celebrated age inclusivity, a refreshing departure from fashion’s typical youth focus, continuing a positive trend seen with veteran models like Kristen McMenamy at Tom Ford and Guinevere van Seenus at Calvin Klein.
Several models showcased shimmering, club-ready pastel hair colors, and as the presentation progressed, the glamour quotient intensified significantly. The collection featured vibrantly patterned outerwear and evening gowns constructed with pastry-like layering techniques, complete with cascading ruffles, flowing ribbon details, and dragonfly-adorned bodices. The overall effect created looks so extravagant they seemed to transcend typical dance floor fashion.