After being the little secret all the fashion insiders knew and gossiped about that was still waiting for the confirmation—because, as you know, anything could happen in fashion—the breaking news arrived on what seemed like a normal Thursday where we were still processing Galliano’s departure from Margiela the day before. Many big moves for such a short period of time, but it seems like they are all the right ones. Matthieu Blazy, the man responsible for Bottega Veneta’s current it-status, is facing the biggest challenge of his life as the head of one of the legendary fashion houses, Chanel, a challenge we know for a fact he won't have any trouble overcoming and succeeding at. With this move, the empty place he leaves at Bottega would’ve been the hot topic of discussion if it weren't for the almost immediate announcement of ex-Carven Louise Trotter as the new creative director. Don't blink or you'll miss the next move.
Ever since Virginie Viard’s departure from the French maison last June, one of the most desired and powerful positions in fashion was left empty, waiting to see who would be the perfect match for this tempting but intimidating job. Months of rumours, theories, and conspiracies went by without a clear idea of who the final name would be until some weeks ago, when an M name started to resonate more and more within the industry circles; imagining this creator at the big C was kind of an unexpected concept but at the same time, a quite promising one. It was until yesterday, December 12th, where the announcement of Matthieu Blazy departing from Bottega Veneta, the Italian house that has become one of the key players in the fashion, trends, and influence game—thanks to him—broke the internet and our hearts a little bit, because, even if we knew what was coming next, it is necessary to recognise how few matches are so made in heaven as Bottega and Matthieu.
Earlier in the morning, another unexpected exit left another player waiting for their new role: British designer Louis Trotter exited from Carven after two years as creative director. Seemingly unrelated and just some hours, dare I say minutes, after Bottega’s announcement, the plot twist that was honestly not that big of a surprise but still happily received arrived, announcing Matthieu Blazy as Chanel’s new Artistic Director of Fashion Activities. The celebration of such a dear name of the industry arriving at such a dear maison didn't even give us time to mourn his loss at Bottega, and when our feeds were filled with Blazy’s face being congratulated by everyone, Trotter’s picture made a sudden appearance, but not anymore as the former head of Carven but as Bottega Venetta’s new Creative Director. It was an afternoon that will be remembered as one of those “you had to be there” moments.
What does this represent for fashion? Two great names in two great places. Matthieu's ability to understand the current zeitgeist and benefit from it in such a tasteful way, where the craft and savoir faire have become as signature of him as his inventiveness and ever-surprising ideas, seems like a perfect match for Chanel, a house with infinite sources of inspiration that values the care and expertise but also the imagination and the joy within the process of creation. Trotter’s arrival to Botegga makes just as much sense, where her vast experience and her refined eye will be able to shine. It's just a matter of having a quick look at Carven’s latest collections to realise why she’s the perfect woman for the job. Also, a fact that we wish was less surprising but that we’re still in a place where it's big news: with her appointment, she becomes the only female creative director at the helm of a house owned by Kering. Let her not be the last.
Both designers will take on their roles starting next year. 2025 is already looking great.