Chanel Announces Matthieu Blazy as New Creative Director
Matthieu Blazy captured by Dana Lixenberg
In a pivotal moment for the fashion world, Chanel has revealed that Matthieu Blazy will take the helm as its creative director, marking a significant transition for the French luxury house. The announcement follows Virginie Viard’s unexpected departure earlier this year, closing a chapter defined by her continuation of Karl Lagerfeld’s legacy.
The 40-year-old French-Belgian designer expressed his excitement on social media, stating, “I am thrilled and honored to join the remarkable house of Chanel. I look forward to beginning this new chapter and crafting it together.” His appointment was made public on Thursday, just an hour after Bottega Veneta confirmed Blazy’s departure after four transformative years.
Leena Nair, Chanel’s CEO, praised Blazy’s talents, calling him “one of the most gifted designers of his generation” and affirming that he will help shape Chanel’s future. The transition comes at a critical juncture, as the brand seeks to solidify its standing as a beacon of modern luxury.
Blazy will officially step into his role in April 2025, with his debut collection set for September during Paris Fashion Week. Meanwhile, Bottega Veneta has announced that Louise Trotter, formerly of Carven, will succeed Blazy, ensuring a seamless transition for the Italian label.
This appointment signals a fresh direction for Chanel, as Blazy brings his innovative aesthetic and a proven ability to blend heritage with contemporary design. Fashion enthusiasts are eager to see how this new chapter unfolds, marking another evolution in the storied house’s legacy.
The End of an Era: John Galliano Exits Maison Margiela After 10 Years
John Galliano
John Galliano, the renowned British designer, recently announced his departure from Maison Margiela, closing a chapter that redefined the house of fashion and marked a personal renaissance in his career. The announcement, made through his social media, was accompanied by an emotional message in which Galliano expressed his gratitude to his team and highlighted the vital support Margiela provided during a pivotal moment in his life.
Since taking over as creative director in 2014, Galliano infused Maison Margiela with a blend of innovative theatricality and a profound respect for the brand’s minimalist heritage. His tenure redefined Margiela’s creative language with iconic creations such as the Tabi shoes, artisanal collections, and conceptual storytelling that captivated critics and fashion enthusiasts alike.
The Spring 2024 collection was Galliano’s final runway presentation for the house, a show brimming with haute couture and his signature style. This last collection encapsulated his lasting impact, leaving an indelible mark on Margiela’s DNA.
Maison Margiela Spring Summer 24
As the industry speculates about Galliano’s next steps, Maison Margiela has yet to announce his successor. This transition adds to a year marked by surprising changes across iconic fashion houses such as Chanel, Celine, Dries Van Noten, and Fendi, underscoring the ever-evolving nature of the luxury fashion world.
With his departure, Galliano closes a chapter of innovation and transformation while opening the door to new opportunities, both for himself and the legendary Maison Margiela.
Dries Van Noten: A New Creative Chapter with Julian Klausner
Julian Klausner
The storied Antwerp-based fashion house Dries Van Noten has announced an exciting new era, appointing Julian Klausner as its new creative director for womenswear. Klausner, a longtime member of the brand’s design team, steps into the role following the retirement of founder Dries Van Noten from runway presentations earlier this year. The decision reflects Van Noten’s confidence in Klausner’s vision and ability to carry the brand’s legacy forward. “I have full faith in Julian Klausner as my successor,” Van Noten affirmed, marking a significant endorsement of the designer who has worked closely with him for the past six years.
A Fresh Start for a Celebrated House
Klausner’s first collection under his new title will debut on March 5 during Paris Fashion Week, unveiling his creative direction for Dries Van Noten’s womenswear. The autumn 2025 menswear line, meanwhile, will be presented in a look-book format, offering a fresh perspective under Klausner’s leadership.
A Journey Forged in Fashion Excellence
A graduate of the prestigious La Cambre school in Brussels, Klausner’s fashion journey has been marked by excellence and diverse experiences. After graduating in 2016, he gained invaluable experience through internships at Thom Browne, Kenzo, and Maison Margiela, where he was later hired as a junior designer. His deep understanding of Dries Van Noten’s aesthetic, cultivated during his tenure with the brand, positions him as a natural bridge between its celebrated past and a bold new future.
Bridging Past and Future
Under Klausner’s leadership, the house is set to maintain its distinct creative identity while evolving for a new generation of fashion enthusiasts. The brand emphasized that Klausner represents a “natural connection between the past and the future,” tasked with driving the men’s and women’s collections forward while preserving the artistic ethos that defines Dries Van Noten.
Rabanne Pre-Fall 2025: A Nautical Journey with Julien Dossena
Julien Dossena brings a deeply personal touch to Rabanne’s Pre-Fall 2025 collection, drawing inspiration from his childhood in a coastal fishing town in Brittany. Rooted in nautical aesthetics, the collection reimagines timeless maritime staples—striped sailor shirts and pea coats—with the designer’s signature bohemian and grunge-infused 1970s flair.
Courtesy of Rabanne
At the heart of this collection lies an ingenious balance of tradition and innovation. A standout piece is the yellow oilskin jacket, crafted in collaboration with Guy Cotten, a renowned outfitter for professional fishermen. This functional yet stylish creation sits alongside a striking evening dress that masterfully combines gold chainmail with black lace, blurring the lines between utility and high fashion.
Courtesy of Rabanne
Continuing Rabanne’s legacy of space-age innovation, Dossena introduces a black raincoat with a detachable silver lining and a selection of mini waterproof canvas bags and bucket hats. The technical, weatherproof designs coexist seamlessly with softer, sailor-inspired garments such as a graphic rope-button jacket and neoprene-striped hoodies, bringing a fresh twist to seaside fashion staples.
Courtesy of Rabanne
Dossena’s connection to these pieces runs deep. “These are the items I grew up with, that my family and I wore. It’s about adapting them to my work today and how they resonate with me personally,” he shared during a preview. His relaxed take on glamour shines through, as seen in pieces like a baby doll dress styled with a cardigan reminiscent of Queen Elizabeth II’s countryside attire, and a mix of bold printed blouses with masculine outerwear, including a vintage-inspired cognac leather biker jacket.
Courtesy of Rabanne
This collection seamlessly transitions from daywear to evening elegance, incorporating beach-ready crochet separates adorned with metallic beads, shimmering chainmail pareo skirts, and sleek jersey dresses with swimsuit-inspired cutouts. The clever interplay of textures and silhouettes captures a sense of ease and versatility.
Touches of nostalgia are woven into the collection, from terrycloth tops and skirts featuring bold graphic stripes that nod to Sonia Delaunay’s 1920s knitwear designs, to a floral print lifted from a 1993 Kurt Cobain photo wearing a vintage dress on the cover of The Face. Accessories further enrich the narrative, with conch-shell embellishments adorning the brand’s iconic 1969 bag, nautilus-shaped earrings, and anchor-pendant necklaces evoking a maritime dreamscape.
Kate Moss x Zara Capsule: Effortless Glamour Meets High-Street Style
Launching today, November 30, the highly awaited Kate Moss x Zara capsule collection is set to be a high-street sensation. Inspired by the 1970s and the stylish women of that era, Moss infused the collection with vintage charm and modern edge. Citing muses like Charlotte Rampling and Lauren Hutton, as well as the legendary Studio 54, Moss worked alongside her longtime collaborator Katy England to bring her vision to life.
Kate Moss x Zara Nov. 30. Courtesy of ZaraKate Moss x Zara Nov. 30. Courtesy of ZaraKate Moss x Zara Nov. 30. Courtesy of ZaraKate Moss x Zara Nov. 30. Courtesy of ZaraKate Moss x Zara Nov. 30. Courtesy of Zara
A Walk Down Memory Lane with a Glamorous Edge
Kate Moss drew inspiration from the 1970s, channeling the glamour of Charlotte Rampling, Lauren Hutton, and the glitz of Studio 54. With creative styling by Katy England, the capsule reflects Moss’s signature look—sophisticated yet edgy. Pieces include bias-cut dresses in cream and black, reminiscent of the 1930s tea dress, and bold leopard-print items like lingerie, bucket bags, and a vintage-inspired peacoat.
Adding a rock-and-roll vibe, the collection offers a black sequin bra top with crystal embellishments, python-print shorts, and tailored jackets directly inspired by Moss’s personal wardrobe staples. Accessories such as T-bar sandals, black leather boots, printed scarves, and chunky-stone rings complement the collection, ensuring it caters to both the glamorous and the rebellious.
Moss described the collection as a range of “effortlessly chic pieces with just the right amount of glam to take you through the party season.” The campaign, photographed by Mert Alas and Marcus Piggott, captures the sultry and dynamic energy of the designs, reinforcing Moss’s enduring influence on fashion.
Zara’s Strategic High-Profile Collaborations
This collection is part of Zara’s ongoing strategy under Marta Ortega Pérez to elevate its brand image through celebrity collaborations. Following the success of its October collection with Stefano Pilati, Zara continues to dominate the high-street market with collaborations that blend accessibility and exclusivity. This Moss capsule marks her return to design, following her celebrated partnerships with Topshop between 2007 and 2014.
Kate Moss x Zara Nov. 30. Courtesy of ZaraKate Moss x Zara Nov. 30. Courtesy of Zara
A New Chapter for High-Street Fashion
As high-street brands increasingly partner with fashion icons, Zara stands at the forefront, setting a benchmark for success. The Kate Moss x Zara capsule embodies this trend, blending affordability, star power, and timeless design to create a collection that will undoubtedly resonate with fashion lovers worldwide.
Kim Jones Designs Exclusive Chain Necklace for Marc Jacobs’ 40th Anniversary
To honor Marc Jacobs’ milestone 40th anniversary in the fashion world, Kim Jones, Dior’s artistic director, has unveiled a limited-edition chain necklace. This collaboration marries the playful yet elegant style of Marc Jacobs’ jewelry collections with Dior’s unparalleled craftsmanship, resulting in a unique, statement piece that appeals to collectors and fashion aficionados alike.
The Dior necklace designed by Kim Jones for the 40th anniversary of Marc Jacobs. / DIOR
A Luxury Collaboration Redefined
Set to debut this Thursday, the Dior necklace channels the charm of Marc Jacobs’ signature necklaces and bracelets while elevating it with the precision and elegance of haute couture. Limited to just 20 exclusive pieces, this necklace will be available worldwide for €1,500, making it an ultra-coveted item for collectors and luxury jewelry lovers.
Where to Find It
The necklace will be sold in 14 select Dior boutiques globally, including iconic locations such as 30 Avenue Montaigne in Paris, the Fifth Avenue boutique in New York, and Dior’s menswear shop-in-shop at Harrods in London. Other flagship stores across the globe, including Miami, Dubai, Tokyo, Singapore, and major cities in China like Shanghai and Beijing, will also carry this special item, highlighting its international allure.
A Testament to Legacy and Style
This necklace isn’t just a piece of jewelry—it symbolizes a celebration of Marc Jacobs’ four decades of influence and Kim Jones’ modern design brilliance. A striking blend of playfulness and elegance, this limited-edition accessory is poised to become a timeless representation of innovation and collaboration in the fashion world.
With its blend of exclusivity, artistry, and rich symbolism, the chain necklace captures the enduring legacy of two of fashion’s greatest creative minds, making it a highlight for this year in luxury.
M6 Maison Margiela Redefines Basics with a Sartorial Twist
For its pre-fall collection, MM6 Maison Margiela showcased a masterful exploration of wardrobe essentials, transforming them into effortlessly chic pieces with a touch of daring attitude. This season, the creative studio took staple garments and reimagined them with Maison Margiela’s signature deconstruction techniques, adding a fresh layer of sophistication and originality.
Courtesy of MM6 Maison MargielaCourtesy of MM6 Maison MargielaCourtesy of MM6 Maison MargielaCourtesy of MM6 Maison MargielaCourtesy of MM6 Maison MargielaCourtesy of MM6 Maison MargielaCourtesy of MM6 Maison MargielaCourtesy of MM6 Maison MargielaCourtesy of MM6 Maison MargielaCourtesy of MM6 Maison MargielaCourtesy of MM6 Maison MargielaCourtesy of MM6 Maison MargielaCourtesy of MM6 Maison MargielaCourtesy of MM6 Maison MargielaCourtesy of MM6 Maison Margiela
Reinventing Classics for Women
The collection offered a new perspective on tailoring and basics. Oversized blazers were elevated with creative tweaks, like turning a traditional lapel into a shawl collar, or reimagining sleeveless tailored tops as deconstructed jackets given a second life. Midi skirts echoed the spirit of repurposed trousers, worn upside down to add an unexpected dimension. A standout piece was a fitted blazer outlined with tonal tape, a nostalgic nod to Martin Margiela’s iconic Stockman-inspired designs from Spring 1997, a motif also echoed in sweaters and jeans.
Menswear with a Vintage Flair
The men’s pieces embraced precision with a twist. Tailored trousers appeared inverted, blending classic tailoring with a sense of playful irreverence. A satin bomber jacket, washed to emulate weathered leather, and a crisp white coat channeling MM6’s earlier menswear experiments, stood out. Faux fur prints added a vintage-inspired quirk, conveying warmth and texture with a unique, non-traditional edge.
Elevated Accessories and Footwear
Eschewing the omnipresent sneaker trend, MM6 Maison Margiela opted for footwear that exuded timeless elegance. Leather pieces reigned supreme, from pointed-toe boots to loafers and derby shoes featuring tabi-inspired stitching—a subtle nod to the brand’s iconic split-toe design.
A Vintage-Modern Aesthetic
This pre-fall offering served as the perfect lead-up to MM6 Maison Margiela’s upcoming role as a guest designer at Pitti Uomo. Its slightly retro, tailored aesthetic hinted at a thoughtful interplay between past and present, aligning with the brand’s ethos of innovation rooted in tradition.
Gucci’s Struggle: What’s Driving Its Sales Decline?
In 2024, Gucci, a cornerstone of Kering’s luxury portfolio, has faced significant setbacks, particularly evident in the brand’s Q3 financial results. With a sharp 25% drop in quarterly sales contributing to Kering’s overall 15% revenue decline, Gucci is grappling with evolving market dynamics and heightened competition.
Gucci S/S 25 Womenswear Collection / GUCCI
Challenges in Consumer Connection
One of Gucci’s primary challenges lies in its struggle to resonate with younger, price-sensitive luxury buyers. Despite Sabato De Sarno’s recent appointment as creative director and efforts to modernize the brand, his collections have yet to establish the impact needed to bridge the gap between Gucci’s storied legacy and contemporary consumer expectations. Competing against “quiet luxury” brands like Hermès, which prioritize understated elegance, Gucci has found itself in a precarious position as it attempts to redefine its identity.
The Impact of Global Markets
Asia, particularly China, plays a critical role in Gucci’s revenue streams, accounting for nearly 50% of its income. However, the economic slowdown in the region has further compounded the brand’s challenges, reducing consumer spending in one of its most lucrative markets. This regional downturn, combined with shifting global spending patterns, underscores the broader difficulties facing the luxury sector in 2024.
Operational Setbacks
Operational delays and missteps have also hindered Gucci’s recovery. While De Sarno’s designs have been met with optimism, the transition to his leadership has been slower than anticipated, limiting the brand’s ability to adapt swiftly to market demands. These delays have highlighted Gucci’s over-reliance on aspirational but non-loyal consumers, who are quick to pivot to competitors offering more relevant and compelling propositions.
A Path to Recovery
To regain its standing as Kering’s flagship brand, Gucci must recalibrate its strategy to align with the preferences of today’s consumers. Strengthening its value proposition, accelerating product rollouts, and leveraging its heritage to tell a fresh, innovative story could be key steps in reclaiming its position.
Glenn Martens Redefines Denim for Diesel Pre-Fall 2025
Glenn Martens continues to solidify Diesel’s dominance in the denim world while showcasing his ability to explore and expand its creative boundaries. For the brand’s expansive pre-fall 2025 collection, Martens crafted a lineup that merges commercial appeal with Diesel’s democratic ethos, all while injecting his signature playful touch into the brand’s established codes. The accompanying lookbook images, evocative of nostalgic album covers, underline the youthful and irreverent spirit Diesel is known for.
Diesel Pre-Fall 2025 Collection Courtesy of DieselDiesel Pre-Fall 2025 Collection Courtesy of DieselDiesel Pre-Fall 2025 Collection Courtesy of DieselDiesel Pre-Fall 2025 Collection Courtesy of DieselDiesel Pre-Fall 2025 Collection Courtesy of DieselDiesel Pre-Fall 2025 Collection Courtesy of Diesel
A key focus of this collection lies in Martens’ exploration of fluid silhouettes and innovative technical wear, expanding the Diesel lexicon built on staples like utility-inspired pieces, bold Pop aesthetics, trompe-l’œil designs, distressed textures, and vibrant prints. Martens expressed excitement over the sportier pieces, noting his persistence in perfecting technical wear. Highlights include windbreakers, zippered jackets, and shorts that replicate denim’s washed aesthetic but are crafted from lightweight nylon interwoven with denim fibers, offering both practicality and innovation. Complementing these are jersey polos and velvet tracksuits that channel ‘90s nostalgia.
Fluid tailoring adds a sense of sophistication, with elongated denim-like shirtdresses, skirts, and pants delivering a relaxed yet polished vibe. The collection also features understated knits in faded tones and cardigans with a metallic glaze mimicking chainmail, adding a touch of edge to otherwise laid-back pieces.
Taking cues from Diesel’s latest runway, Martens reimagines knotted dresses inspired by the brand’s archival scarves, offering monochromatic ensembles and striking patchworks of intricate and psychedelic patterns. Adding a playful twist, the collection includes whimsical prints featuring kittens, ducklings, and tarantulas splashed across padded jackets, dresses, and accessories like the Play bag. These quirky elements underscore Diesel’s youthful, irreverent energy, proving that the brand can resonate beyond its denim roots.
Diesel Pre-Fall 2025 Collection Courtesy of Diesel
In the heart of Riyadh, Elie Saab celebrated his illustrious 45-year journey in haute couture with a runway show that was nothing short of a masterpiece. Part of the Riyadh Season 2024, the event featured a constellation of top models who embodied Saab’s vision of timeless elegance and artistic excellence.
Models Bring Saab’s Vision to Life
The show revolved around the models who personified Saab’s signature aesthetic—graceful, intricate, and dazzlingly glamorous. Draped in designs that blended Middle Eastern opulence with contemporary sophistication, they exuded confidence and allure. From flowing chiffon dresses embellished with fine embroidery to jewel-toned structured gowns, the collection was a celebration of haute couture’s transformative power.
Candice Swanepoel
Getty Images for Elie SaabGetty Images for Elie Saab
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Adriana Lima
Getty Images for Elie SaabGetty Images for Elie Saab
Just weeks after she returned for the 2024 Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show, Lima has made another rare runway appearance in Riyadh for Elie Saab. The supermodel descended the catwalk in a striking barely-there gown and Lima was covered in sequins for her second look of the night.
Helena Christensen
Getty Images for Elie SaabGetty Images for Elie Saab
Danish supermodel and former Victoria’s Secret Angel Helena Christensen, 55, made a remarkable appearance on the runway, showcasing not one but two breathtaking outfits. She embraced the year’s popular sheer dress trend, wearing a stunning cape-style gown adorned with intricate embroidery from top to bottom, exuding elegance and sophistication.
Eva Herzigová
Getty Images for Elie Saab
The Czech model and actress captivated the audience as she graced the runway for Elie Saab in a mesmerizing silver ensemble. Her striking look embodied the designer’s signature elegance, highlighting her effortless beauty and poise. The shimmering silver gown, adorned with intricate embellishments, perfectly complemented her statuesque presence, making her a standout on the runway. As she walked with confidence, her appearance added a touch of cinematic allure to the show, blending sophistication with timeless charm.
Alek Wek
Getty Images for Elie Saab
Alek Wek graced the runway draped in a stunning ensemble of deep navy feathers layered over a sheer gown intricately adorned with sparkling embellishments.
Anne V’jalicyna
Getty Images for Elie Saab
She commanded the runway with elegance, showcasing a meticulously crafted metallic gown adorned with shimmering gold and silver accents. The intricate design featured delicate lines of metallic hues running vertically up the flowing skirt, creating a striking interplay of light and texture as she moved. The ensemble’s sophisticated details highlighted her poise and added a touch of modern glamour to the show.
Stella Maxwell
Getty Images for Elie Saab
Former Victoria’s Secret Angel, Stella Maxwell, turned heads on the runway as she walked in a striking silver dress that featured bold cutout details around the midsection. The daring design highlighted her figure while adding an edgy contrast to the sleek, metallic fabric. The combination of the futuristic silver tone and the modern cutouts created a stunning look that captivated the audience and showcased Maxwell’s flawless confidence.
