French-Belgian designer Matthieu Blazy will slot in at the maison after four years as artistic director at Italian fashion house Bottega Veneta. Image credit: Kering
French fashion house Chanel has selected a new creative director, according to reports.
French-Belgian designer Matthieu Blazy will slot in at the maison after four years as artistic director at Italian fashion house Bottega Veneta, first confirmed by Women's Wear Daily and the Financial Times. Mr. Blazy replaces former creative director Virginie Viard, who departed the role in June, and will report to Chanel's president of fashion Bruno Pavlovsky.
New beginnings at Chanel
French luxury conglomerate Kering has appointed British designer Louise Trotter creative director at Bottega Veneta.
She steps in for Mr. Blazy, now charged with overseeing the production of the iconic atelier's ready-to-wear and couture collections, in addition to accessories. Mr. Blazy was appointed ready-to-wear design director at Bottega Veneta in 2020 before officially becoming the house's creative director in November 2021 once English fashion designer Daniel Lee departed for a chief creative officer role at British fashion label Burberry.
Residing in both Anwerp and Milan, he follows in the footsteps of such as well-known Chanel alums as late German fashion designer, who passed in 2019 at the age of 85 (see story).
In a statement released Thursday, executives at Bottega Veneta wished Mr. Blazy well in his future endeavors Ms. Trotter prepares to begin her tenure.
Kering has appointed British designer Louise Trotter creative director at Bottega Veneta. Image credit: Kering
The leader comes to the luxury brand from French womenswear label Carven, leading its team since February 2023, hailing from houses including French luxury sports fashion company Lacoste and British contemporary brand Joseph.
“I am pleased to welcome Louise as our new creative director,” said Leo Rongone, CEO of Bottega Veneta, in a statement.
“Her aesthetic seamlessly combines exquisite design with sublime craft and her commitment to cultural advocacy aligns beautifully with our brand vision,” Mr. Rongone said. “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.”