Virginie Viard, who took over as Chanel’s creative director following Karl Lagerfeld’s death in 2019, is leaving the house after five years. During her time at Chanel, Viard left a significant mark on the fashion house, bringing a lighter, more casual approach to collections without losing the brand’s classic and sophisticated essence.
She has been responsible for memorable collections that celebrated Chanel’s heritage while incorporating fresh, modern elements. The spring/summer 2024 collection, for example, featured a coastal vibe inspired by the Villa Noailles in the South of France, highlighting relaxed elegance and the use of natural materials like raffia.
In addition, Virginie created the house's It Bag , the " Chanel 22 " bag, which quickly became an icon , available in a variety of textures, colors and sizes.
Viard also kept alive Chanel’s tradition of spectacular shows, with stunning sets and meticulous attention to detail that have always characterized the house. Her leadership at Chanel was marked by a deep respect for the legacy of Coco Chanel and Karl Lagerfeld, while introducing her own vision of femininity and modernity.
With her departure, Chanel is preparing for a new era, while Viard’s legacy will be remembered for her contributions to the continued evolution of one of the fashion world’s most iconic brands.