Chanel announces as its new artistic director
After months of speculation, Chanel has named its new artistic director. Matthieu Blazy, most recently the creative director of luxury Italian label Bottega Veneta was appointed to one of the most high-profile jobs in fashion.
In a press release, Chanel’s president of fashion Bruno Pavlovsky said he was “delighted” with Blazy’s appointment. “I am convinced that he will be able to play with the codes and heritage of the House, through an ongoing dialogue with the studio, our ateliers, and our Maisons d’art,” read Pavlovsky’s statement. “His audacious personality, his innovative and powerful approach to creation, as well as his dedication to craftsmanship and beautiful materials, will take Chanel in exciting new directions.”
The 40-year-old has served more than four years at Bottega Veneta (including three as its creative director), where his collections have steadily accumulated praise for their distinct vision and elevated playfulness. His trademark has become trompe l’oeil looks that gave leather the appearance of flannel shirts, paper grocery bags and denim jeans, among much else. Blazy’s creative innovation has translated to commercial success, to a conversion that has often proved difficult in the fashion industry. While Bottega’s parent company Kering reported year-on-year revenue drops for its other big houses, Yves Saint Laurent and Gucci, the Italian label grew its sales the first half of 2024.
Born in Paris, Blazy, who is French-Belgian studied at La Cambre visual arts school in Brussels. His portfolio includes internships at Balenciaga under Nicholas Ghesquière and for John Galliano. After graduating in 2007, he joined Raf Simons’ eponymous label as a menswear designer and would later work with him at Calvin Klein. He also held posts at Maison Margiela and Céline.
Of his new job title, Blazy said in a press release: “I am thrilled and honored to join the wonderful House of Chanel. I look forward to meeting all the teams and writing this new chapter together.”
Louise Trotter Appointed Creative Director of Bottega Veneta
Louise Trotter has been appointed to the creative director role at Bottega Veneta. Trotter, who is currently serving as creative director of French fashion house Carven, where she has been for just shy of two years, will move over to Bottega Veneta at the end of January 2025.
Prior to her role at Carven, Trotter held creative director positions at British labels Lacoste and Joseph.
In a statement released by Kering and Trotter today, the designer said: “I am deeply honored to join Bottega Veneta as Creative Director. The House’s storied legacy of artistry and innovation is truly inspiring, and I am excited to contribute to its future and celebrate its timeless vision.”
Leo Rongone, CEO of Bottega Veneta, added: “I am pleased to welcome Louise as our new Creative Director. Her aesthetic seamlessly combines exquisite design with sublime craft and her commitment to cultural advocacy aligns beautifully with our brand vision.
“Through her sophisticated lens, Bottega Veneta will continue to celebrate its heritage while preserving modern relevance. I also want to express my profound appreciation for Matthieu, who has been an extraordinary partner in infusing our brand with desirability, emotional resonance, and intellectual identity.”
The designer will be the only female creative director at luxury group Kering, who also count brands such as Balenciaga and Yves Saint Laurent as part of their stable.
Source: Chanel and Bottega Veneta