Villa d’Este in Cernobbio, on the western shore of Lake Como, served as the setting for Chanel’s Cruise 2025/26 show. A place soaked in history, cinematic memories, and a particular kind of old-world elegance. Once frequented by Gabrielle Chanel and her close circle, including Italian filmmaker Luchino Visconti, the estate offered a fitting backdrop for this modern ode to glamour.
In the lead-up to Matthieu Blazy’s much-anticipated debut as Creative Director, the Chanel Creation Studio took centre stage with a collection of 68 looks. A glamorous interlude rich in iconic house codes.
Cruise shows are, in essence, a celebration of escapism. First introduced in the 1920s for wealthy clients travelling to warmer shores during winter, they have evolved into transitional collections created for global wardrobes. Today, they are a form of storytelling. Each show is staged in an iconic location that reflects the house’s heritage and vision. Under Virginie Viard’s creative direction, Chanel brought its Cruise collections to the Cité Radieuse art centre in Marseille (2024), Shenzhen in China (2023), and Monte-Carlo in Monaco (2022), each capturing a unique cultural backdrop.
Chanel Cruise show 2025, courtesy of Chanel.
To set the tone, filmmaker Sofia Coppola created a short film full of nostalgia. On the runway, inside the villa and outside on the terrace, that vision transformed into a chic holiday wardrobe. Chanel’s iconic tweeds turned summery in lightweight textures, drenched in sequins and softened by pastel tones, alongside classic black and white looks. A peach-pink palette matched the faded tones of the villa’s walls. Black taffeta and ivory suiting brought a cinematic edge, subtly referencing the visual world of Luchino Visconti, a close friend of Mademoiselle Chanel.
Classic Cruise elements were present too: crisp white trousers, nautical stripes, and strawberry-toned coats. But everything shimmered. Even the accessories told stories — satin-pink ruched gloves, flowing lamé capes, and one unexpected highlight: a cupcake minaudière. Playful and surreal, like a Pop-art wink at holiday excess.
My favourite look? A sunset-hued mini coat in degradé colours, paired with a matching gold bag and delicate strappy sandals. A perfect blend of glamour and lightness.
Chanel Cruise show 2025, courtesy of Chanel.
The entire collection felt like a luxurious summer escape, filled with champagne moments and speakeasy evenings. That’s what this Chanel woman carries in her suitcase: joy, ease, and a pure love for dressing up.
Discover more: www.chanel.com
All images, copyright Chanel, courtesy of Chanel.
