Chanel Took Over The New York Subway for it’s 2026 Métiers d’art Collection

In an unexpected yet thrilling move, Chanel showcased its 2026 Métiers d’art collection at a New York City subway platform, marking designer Matthieu Blazy’s debut for the iconic fashion house. As fashion aficionados gathered last night, they applauded not only the creativity of the show but also the unique undercurrent of the venue. An abandoned subway station became the backdrop for this glamorous event, turning a typically mundane setting into a stage for haute couture.

With notable stars such as Teyana Taylor, Jessie Buckley, A$AP Rocky, and Margaret Qualley in attendance, the contrast between celebrity allure and the gritty New York City environment was striking. The wooden benches provided a rustic touch as these fashion luminaries congregated, leading observers to ponder the dichotomy of luxury and everyday life.

While New York may not be the house’s home base, its choice as a runway destination carries significant weight. From Gabrielle Chanel’s first visit to the city in 1931 to Karl Lagerfeld’s final Métiers d’art collection at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in 2018, Chanel’s history with New York runs deep. By selecting a vibrant, yet challenging location for his collection, Blazy honours this legacy while making a bold statement that aligns with the city’s essence—innovative, rebellious, and iconic.

The collection itself drew heavily from the rich tapestry of Chanel’s past. Blazy paid homage to his predecessors through various pieces, including a striking sequined T-shirt that echoed Lagerfeld’s memorable graffiti-inspired designs from the spring/summer 2014 collection. This nod not only demonstrates the continuity within the house but also breathes new life into familiar motifs, encouraging a modern interpretation of classic styles.

The runway featured an eclectic mix of androgynous silhouettes, illustrated beautifully by models such as Alex Consani, who donned a pinstripe suit while casually sauntering down the platform. Perhaps one of the standout pieces was a vibrant, psychedelic giraffe-like skirt suit that exemplified Blazy’s innovative approach to textiles and prints.

Many designs embraced a philosophy of “women in transit,” perfectly capturing the essence of urban life with details like coats slung over shoulder bags and sweaters thoughtfully tied around waists. In doing so, Blazy crafted a picture of modern femininity—practical yet stylish, grounded yet avant-garde.

Matthieu Blazy’s inaugural Métiers d’art collection for Chanel is a testament to the enduring relationship between fashion and its environments. By transforming a subway platform into an unparalleled showcase, he has redefined the boundaries of what a fashion show can entail. The 2026 collection not only honours the legends of the past but also positions Chanel firmly in the contemporary landscape, captivating both fashion insiders and the general public. As the applause faded and the subway doors closed, one thing remained clear: Chanel is always ready to surprise and inspire—regardless of the setting.

Photo: Kelly Taub/WWD