The hype is real. Under new Creative Director Matthieu Blazy, Chanel is ablaze, with his first collections not only causing a shopping frenzy but also maximizing top-line growth. According to Bloomberg, unnamed sources at Chanel say that revenues for the first half of 2026 rose 16% — exceeding those of other luxury brands during the period. Beauty sales were up 9%.
Blazy’s first collections for Chanel hit stores in March of this year, sold out immediately, with an inaugural early drop in Paris that had fashionistas around the world clamoring for items, particularly handbags and shoes. Despite concerns initially expressed by long-term Chanel fans that he was straying from the House’s design codes, many came to view Blazy’s new direction as fresh and more in line with Coco and Karl Lagerfeld than initially believed.
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In recent years, particularly since the death of Lagerfeld and the pandemic, Chanel has been criticized for extravagant price increases — the cost of a Classic Flap doubled between 2019 and 2026, now standing at $11,300. While Blazy did not reverse this trend, he did offer highly covetable bags at a somewhat lower price point. For example, the Leather Maxi Flap with leather strap retails for $8500, and the animal-print version with chain strap at $9200.
That is, if you can get one. Which is another part of the Chanel equation under Blazy — limited supply, or exclusivity. Not enough of these bags are produced to satisfy demand. Whether the clamor derives from Blazy and his new vision, wanting a piece from the early collections, or what will become sustained interest remains to be seen.
Image courtesy: @themarcjacobs
For now, the Chanel vibe is resonating with the fashion and influencer world. For Q2, the brand sits atop the Lyst list of hottest brands, not surprising given the hype. Its shared (or could it be leaked, since Chanel does not report quarterly financials?) H2 sales numbers support the success of Blazy’s vision. The question is whether and for how long it will continue.
Are you lusting after Chanel’s latest handbags?
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