French luxury house Chanel announced Monday that it will present a repeat showing of its 2026 Métiers d’Art collection in Seoul on May 26, 2026 – marking the South Korean debut of artistic director Matthieu Blazy’s inaugural collection for the storied maison.
The collection was originally unveiled in New York on December 2, 2025, in a spectacular underground presentation at the Bowery station of the J and Z subway lines, where models emerged from an authentic MTA train onto the revitalized station platform.
The New York show was hailed as a triumph, with critics praising Blazy’s refreshing approach to the house’s heritage codes.
Blazy, who took the helm as Chanel’s creative director in December 2024, replaced Virginie Viard and brings with him years of experience from his previous role at Bottega Veneta. For his debut, he drew inspiration from the diverse characters one encounters in the New York subway system – from a student in silk jeans embroidered by Chanel’s storied Lesage atelier to a society matron in a flowing black opera cape.
The collection exemplifies what critics described as “elevated craft meets pop culture,” reflecting a more accessible and contemporary vision of Chanel.
The Métiers d’Art collection, established in 2002, holds a special place in Chanel’s calendar. These shows honor the exceptional craftsmanship of the artisans and specialist ateliers housed at 31 Rue Cambon in Paris.
Rather than serving as a traditional runway presentation, the collection celebrates the intricate techniques behind Chanel’s most elaborate pieces – from embroidery to featherwork – representing the house’s unwavering commitment to preserving its living heritage.
While Chanel has not yet disclosed the specific venue for the Seoul presentation, the announcement reflects the brand’s long-standing commitment to cultural exchange and strategic positioning in key Asian markets. South Korea has become increasingly significant for luxury fashion, with Seoul serving as a cultural hub known for its creative energy and discerning consumers.
The Seoul restaging continues a tradition of destination presentations for the Métiers d’Art collection. Karl Lagerfeld, Chanel’s legendary creative director before Blazy, frequently brought these shows to cities worldwide, most recently staging a memorable presentation in 2019.
By bringing Blazy’s debut collection to Seoul, Chanel reinforces its investment in both legacy and modernity, allowing an Asian audience to experience firsthand the technical brilliance and creative storytelling that define the collection.
Blazy’s appointment marked a significant transition for the house following Lagerfeld’s tenure. Bruno Pavlovsky, Chanel’s fashion president, expressed enthusiasm for Blazy’s direction, highlighting the designer’s ability to engage with Chanel’s heritage vocabulary while signaling a fresh creative perspective.
The Seoul presentation will provide another opportunity to showcase this balance – honoring the meticulous craftsmanship of Chanel’s artisans while celebrating the dynamic energy and cultural relevance Blazy brings to the brand.
