Chanel’s Cruise 2025/26 presentation at Lake Como was a stunning fusion of luxury, tradition, and innovative forward-thinking design. This event, which took place in the magnificent Villa d’Este on April 29, 2025, was a landmark for the fashion brand as it combined its illustrious history with a forward-thinking outlook. Five salient features of this remarkable display are as follows:
1. Villa d’Este on Lake Como: A Beautiful Scene
The collection was set against the stunning backdrop of Villa d’Este, a 16th-century mansion that has been transformed into a luxurious hotel. The lavishness and historical significance of the location, which was tucked away on the banks of Lake Como, reflected Chanel’s dedication to classic style. This place also honored Coco Chanel’s love of opulent beachside hideaways, which were reminiscent of her time spent at Lake Como and along the French Riviera.
2. A Collection Inspired by the Sea: “Lake Chic”
Inspired by maritime elements and the laid-back refinement of lakeside living, the Cruise 2025/26 collection adopted a “lake chic” design. Key pieces featured culottes, tweeds adorned with crystals in vivid colors including coral, aquamarine, lilac, and sunshine yellow, and nautical themes striped with sequins. The collection’s opulent yet carefree feel was further highlighted by bathrobe-style coats, capri pants, and gold lamé cover-ups.
3. A Front Row Star-Studded
Numerous celebrities and fashion insiders attended the event, highlighting Chanel’s appeal on a global scale. Keira Knightley, Lupita Nyong’o, Sofia Coppola, and up-and-coming celebrities Margaret Qualley and Sarah Catherine Hook were among the notable guests. Their presence emphasized the show’s importance in the fashion calendar and enhanced its appeal.
4. Creative Leadership Transition
Being the first significant event since the departure of former creative director Virginie Viard in 2024, this show signaled a turning point for Chanel. Chanel’s in-house design studio created the Cruise 2025/26 collection while preserving the brand’s distinctive style. With his debut collection expected in October, Matthieu Blazy, a former employee of Bottega Veneta, is expected to take over as creative director going forward. Bruno Pavlovsky, the President of Fashion at Chanel, highlighted Blazy’s compatibility with the brand’s principles and his outlook for its future.
5. Sustainability Initiatives and Strategic Investments
Chanel showcased its dedication to sustainability and workmanship off of the runway. The company’s investment in Mantero, an Italian silk manufacturer, demonstrates its commitment to premium materials and artisanal methods. By concentrating on sustainability and global price harmonization, Chanel also manages the difficulties posed by growing luxury expenses, making sure that its products continue to be both upscale and ecologically responsible.
Chanel’s Cruise 2025/26 performance in Lake Como was more than just a fashion display; it was a celebration of the brand’s long history and forward movement. With a gorgeous collection, a lovely venue, and a clear vision for the future, Chanel reaffirmed its position at the summit of the fashion industry.
