Matthieu Blazy’s debut at Chanel was nothing short of a cultural reset. Known for his architectural eye and refined modernism at Bottega Veneta, Blazy brought a fresh yet reverent energy to the storied French house.
But amid the sleek tailoring, reimagined tweeds, and exquisite craftsmanship, it was model Awar Odhiang’s closing walk that cemented the show as one for the history books.
Blazy’s debut collection balanced reverence for Coco Chanel’s iconic codes with a sharp, forward-looking perspective. The classic tweed suit appeared in fresh proportions, the camellia was deconstructed into fluid appliqués, and pearl accents took on new architectural forms. It was a masterful dialogue between past and present, framed by Blazy’s minimalist sensibility and sculptural precision.
But it was his casting, intentional, global, and unapologetically diverse, that gave the collection emotional depth. Having worked closely with a wide range of models throughout his career, Blazy has long understood the importance of representation not as a trend, but as a truth of modern beauty. Choosing Awar Odhiang, a South Sudanese model known for her striking presence and editorial command, to close his first Chanel show was a deliberate and deeply resonant statement.
Odhiang, who has graced the runways of Prada, Valentino, and Loewe, has quickly become a favorite among designers for her ability to embody both elegance and strength. Her Chanel moment wasn’t just a personal triumph, it was a cultural one.
As the final notes of the show’s orchestral score faded and the audience rose in applause, it was clear Blazy’s Chanel debut had achieved something rare: honoring the maison’s heritage while carving out space for the future. With Awar Odhiang’s historic closing walk, the message was undeniable, Chanel’s next chapter is one of evolution, inclusion, and timeless beauty reimagined.
