who is the new creative director of chanel | who designs for Chanel now

For some reason, French fashion brings out the blood sport in people. The stakes are high, the scrutiny intense, and the pressure to uphold a legacy while simultaneously forging a new path can be crushing. Nowhere is this more evident than in the discussions surrounding the creative direction of Chanel, one of the most iconic and revered houses in the world. The recent passing of Karl Lagerfeld, and the subsequent tenure of Virginie Viard, have left many wondering: who will ultimately step into those (figuratively and literally) large shoes?

The question isn't just about appointing a designer; it's about safeguarding a brand, a cultural touchstone, and a multi-billion dollar empire. It's about finding someone who can understand and respect the codes of Coco Chanel, the revolutionary woman who redefined fashion, while also injecting a fresh perspective that resonates with a modern audience. The answer, as of this writing, remains officially: Virginie Viard. However, the swirling rumors, the constant speculation, and the palpable anxiety within the industry make it clear that the question of "who's next?" is perpetually on everyone's mind.

This article delves into the complexities of the Chanel creative director position, examining the legacy, the contenders (both rumored and potential), and the immense challenges that await whoever takes the helm. We'll explore the different facets of creative direction within the house, from ready-to-wear to makeup, and consider what the future might hold for this venerable institution.

The Shadow of Mademoiselle and the Weight of Lagerfeld: Understanding the Chanel Legacy

To understand the significance of the creative director role at Chanel, one must first grasp the weight of its history. Gabrielle "Coco" Chanel was a visionary. She liberated women from restrictive corsets, championed comfortable yet chic separates, and introduced iconic pieces like the little black dress, the tweed suit, and the quilted handbag. She built a brand synonymous with elegance, sophistication, and timeless style.

After her death in 1971, the brand lay dormant for a time, until Karl Lagerfeld took the reins in 1983. Lagerfeld, a creative genius in his own right, not only revived the house but propelled it to even greater heights. He understood Chanel's DNA perfectly, reinterpreting her signature codes with his own flamboyant flair. He was a master of spectacle, transforming Chanel's runway shows into elaborate theatrical productions that captured the world's attention. For over three decades, Lagerfeld *was* Chanel, and his influence is still deeply felt.

When Lagerfeld passed away in 2019, the natural choice was Virginie Viard, his longtime right-hand woman and trusted collaborator. Viard had worked alongside Lagerfeld for over 30 years, intimately understanding his vision and the inner workings of the house. Her appointment was seen as a gesture of continuity, a way to maintain the essence of Chanel while gradually evolving the brand for a new era.

Virginie Viard: Maintaining the Course, But Is It Enough?

Virginie Viard's tenure has been marked by a quieter, more understated approach. She has focused on refining the classic Chanel silhouettes, emphasizing wearability and practicality. Her collections often feature softer fabrics, less overt embellishment, and a more accessible aesthetic.

While some have praised Viard for her subtle elegance and her commitment to preserving the brand's heritage, others have criticized her for a lack of innovation and a perceived inability to capture the excitement and drama that Lagerfeld brought to the runway. There's a sense that, while the clothes are beautiful and well-made, they lack the spark, the daring, and the undeniable "wow" factor that defined the Lagerfeld era.

This isn't to say that Viard's work is inherently flawed. It's simply that she faces an impossible task: to follow in the footsteps of two giants of fashion and to satisfy the insatiable appetite of an industry that demands constant reinvention.

The Rumor Mill: Contenders for the Chanel Throne

Given the constant scrutiny and the perceived pressure on Virginie Viard, it's no surprise that the rumor mill is perpetually churning with speculation about her potential successor. Here are some of the names that have been frequently mentioned, along with a brief analysis of their potential fit:

* Hedi Slimane: This name is almost always mentioned in connection with any major creative director vacancy. Slimane, known for his razor-sharp tailoring, his rock-and-roll aesthetic, and his ability to create a cult following, has a proven track record at Dior Homme and Saint Laurent. However, his vision is arguably too distinct and too far removed from the classic Chanel codes, making him a less likely candidate.

* Phoebe Philo: Philo, the former creative director of Celine, is a beloved figure in the fashion world. Her minimalist, intellectual, and fiercely independent approach resonated deeply with women who sought sophistication and understated elegance. While her aesthetic might align more closely with Chanel than Slimane's, Philo's famously private nature and her aversion to the spotlight might make her hesitant to take on such a high-profile role.