Here come the ICONS

Chanel's Autumn/Winter 2025 collection paves the groundwork for what's to come by marrying creative design elements with nostalgic references.

- By JOHN NG

On the last day of Paris Fashion Week Autumn/Winter 2025, Chanel presented a collection that expressed romanticism that was pleasingly unforced.

Set beneath a sweeping black ribbon installation by creative director Willo Perron at the Grand Palais, the show signalled a shift in energy at the Maison from one that displays a penchant for softness and play without abandoning what makes Chanel — well, Chanel.

With Matthieu Blazy’s debut collection still under wraps until later this month, this transitional outing was helmed by the French luxury powerhouse’s in-house studio team. Rather than attempting to redefine the brand, they offered a thoughtful take on its iconic codes, including tweed, pearls, bows and camellias, all gently loosened and softened for a cooler, more relaxed mood. Decking the front and reflecting the brand’s cultural pull were actresses Dakota Fanning and Simone Ashley, musicians Raye and Tyla, and supermodels Naomi Campbell and Liu Wen.