Chanel artistic director Matthieu Blazy drew inspiration from birdlife and the life of Coco Chanel for his latest Spring-Summer 2027 collection, presented on Monday in Paris. Marking exactly one year since his debut collection for the fashion house, Blazy’s third ready-to-wear show was held at the Grand Palais, where giant illuminated origami cranes hung above the runway, creating a striking visual backdrop.

The collection revisited Chanel’s signature tweeds, updated with contemporary touches, and prominently featured knee-length skirts, a silhouette that is experiencing a resurgence in the coming season. Blazy described the theme as reflecting Gabrielle Chanel’s layered personal history, emphasizing her journey toward freedom, which he likened to a bird taking flight.

In addition to the runway display, the bird motif was introduced through a set of black-and-white photographs by British photographer David Bailey, showcasing imagery such as feathers, nests, and bird feet. The presentation attracted a number of high-profile attendees, including actors Pedro Pascal, Nicole Kidman, and John Malkovich, as well as singer Dua Lipa, all seated in the front row.

Since taking the helm at Chanel, Blazy, 42, has focused on gently modernizing the brand’s aesthetic, a strategy that has garnered praise from fashion critics and strong support from luxury consumers. Some of his designs have sparked what has been termed “Blazymania,” with shoppers eagerly purchasing pieces that often carry high price tags. Chanel’s financial performance has reflected this momentum, with revenues rising approximately 16 percent in the first half of 2026 compared with the same period in 2025.

Elsewhere during Paris Womenswear Fashion Week, Australian label Zimmermann showcased a romantic and airy collection inspired by butterflies. The show, attended by actresses Uma Thurman, Naomi Watts, and Sarah Snook, highlighted the brand’s continuing growth since becoming the first Australian member of the French Haute Couture and Fashion Federation earlier this year.

Uruguayan designer Gabriela Hearst paid tribute to Afghan women with her Spring-Summer 2027 collection, incorporating traditional prints, symbolic motifs such as pomegranates, and textile craftsmanship that honors Afghanistan’s artisanal heritage. The collection featured garments with full skirts, fitted bodices, and white pieces adorned with small mirrors, highlighting the ongoing work of women artisans preserving their cultural traditions.

Paris Womenswear Fashion Week is scheduled to conclude on Tuesday with runway shows from Ukrainian designer Litkovska, Georgia’s Situationist label, and Paris-based Louis Vuitton.