Everything you need to know about the Chanel 2027 Cruise show

For those not already familiar with the concept, the Chanel Cruise show is the most important moment in the brand’s yearly calendar (aside from the Paris Fashion Week shows, of course). Though Chanel’s traditional seasonal collections have the world watching, it’s the Cruise collection that really makes waves when it comes to paying homage to the brand’s history. 

The first ever Cruise collection was presented by Gabrielle Chanel back in 1919. Outside of the traditionally accepted seasonal fashion schedule, she presented a collection specifically designed for the sort of women holidaying in her beloved seaside hideaway of Biarritz. In the 1980s, Karl Lagerfeld adapted the Cruise concept into a travel capsule wardrobe which sits on the shelves between November and July, designed for those fortunate enough to flee to warmer climates before the official Spring/Summer collection drops. 

When it came to Matthieu Blazy’s debut Cruise collection show this year, there was only suitable location: Biarritz, home to the late Lagerfeld’s holiday villa, Blazy’s fondest childhood memories and Gabrielle Chanel’s first ever couture house, which paved the way for the Chanel we know and love today. As for the specific backdrop, only the town’s finest casino would do. 

The collection itself, however, is a little more obscure. Though it does encapsulate the richness and luxury Gabrielle Chanel intended for the Cruise collection, the theme this year was a little less tangible: mermaids. The closing look of the show worn by Noor Khan was a sequined fishtail gown in a vivid turquoise, paying homage to Blazy’s obsession over the mythical sea creatures.

That being said, Chanel’s traditional style codes are also embedded in the collection, most notably the double C motif which Blazy has used sparingly so far in his career as the Maison’s Creative Director. As the Cruise collection is tailored towards the more traditional Chanel customer (travelling retirees and other such middle class holidaygoers), Blazy made sure to include the logo on everything from belts to swimming caps. Sailor stripes also made a splash at the show on a quarter zip reminiscent of Blazy’s own personal uniform. 

Though the Cruise collection continues to be a celebration of Chanel’s rich history, the 2027 show included plenty of contemporary elements too, like genderless trousers and trinket-style earrings in the shape of little red peppers. The guest list included A$AP Rocky and influencer Bryanboy as the show’s unofficial Zillenial representatives.