Matthieu Blazy Rumoured as Favourite to Become Chanel's Next Artistic Director

Chanel is gearing up for a seismic announcement. By mid-December, the Parisian fashion house is expected to reveal the successor to Virginie Viard, who departed last June after a five-year tenure as artistic director. At the heart of swirling rumours is Matthieu Blazy, the creative mastermind who has elevated Bottega Veneta to new heights, making it a cornerstone of Milanese fashion. The buzz gains credibility as Bottega Veneta has reportedly already begun searching for Blazy’s replacement—an early move that aligns with the strategic foresight typical of the Kering Group, which also oversees powerhouses like Gucci, Saint Laurent, and Balenciaga.

Chanel’s transition follows Viard’s unexpected exit, which marked the end of a pivotal chapter that began in 2019 when she succeeded the legendary Karl Lagerfeld. With no artistic director in place, the maison’s Spring 2025 collection was crafted by an internal team, a temporary but significant measure for one of the world’s most storied fashion brands.

This upcoming announcement is poised to redefine Chanel’s creative direction. If Blazy indeed steps into the role, it could signify a bold evolution for the house. Known for his innovative vision and avant-garde sensibilities, Blazy has the potential to infuse new vitality into Chanel’s timeless legacy. The fashion world is now on edge, counting down the weeks until the reveal.

Blazy’s credentials are nothing short of extraordinary. Since taking the reins at Bottega Veneta in November 2021, he has delivered collections that balance sophistication, elegance, and technical brilliance. His runway shows have become legendary, blending theatricality and artistry—such as his unforgettable Spring 2025 show, where animal-shaped armchairs stole the spotlight.

Born in Paris in 1984, Blazy is a graduate of La Cambre in Brussels, one of Europe’s most prestigious design schools. His career trajectory is a testament to his talent and versatility. He began with Raf Simons, designing menswear, before moving to Phoebe Philo’s Céline, where he honed his signature approach to modern luxury. His journey also took him to New York, where he collaborated with Simons at Calvin Klein, and to Maison Margiela, where he oversaw the revered Artisanal Couture collections for four transformative years.

As the fashion world watches with bated breath, Chanel’s next chapter promises to be as thrilling as its storied past. If Matthieu Blazy is indeed the chosen one, he brings not only a rich history of craftsmanship but also a forward-thinking ethos that could redefine the house for a new era.