For his latest show, Matthieu Blazy has incorporated a striking visual motif: 95 large white seagulls suspended from the ceiling of the Grand Palais, evoking a sense of freedom and liberation that is at the heart of the brand's ethos.

The dramatic presentation is set against a backdrop of a glowing moon, casting an otherworldly light on the birds as if they are frozen mid-flight.

The evolution of Chanel's runway shows is a story that spans over a century, reflecting significant changes in fashion and culture. A new book, Chanel Shows Fashion Mise-en-Scène, documents this transformation, which began when Gabrielle Chanel founded her eponymous label in 1909 in the heart of Paris.

As the brand grew, so did its creative vision. In 1918, Chanel established a headquarters at Number 31, Rue Cambon, where she showcased her personal style through her atelier's design. The space featured a unique blend of historical elements, including painted wood furnishings and Eastern ceramics, juxtaposed against a mirrored staircase.

The intimate setting of the early shows was short-lived under Karl Lagerfeld, who took over after Chanel's death in 1971. Despite initially adhering to the more subdued style, Lagerfeld soon outgrew the space with his grand visions for the brand's runway presentations.

As the 1990s unfolded, Chanel's brand image began to overshadow its collections. This shift was partly due to the sheer number of shows being held annually, with six events: two ready-to-wear, two couture, cruise, and métiers d'art.

The growing audience for these shows led to increasingly elaborate productions. To accommodate this demand, Lagerfeld opted to stage some of his runway presentations at larger venues.

In 2005, the Paris Grand Palais reopened, providing a new home base for Chanel's ready-to-wear and couture shows.

The meticulous planning that goes into creating a Chanel runway show is staggering. It takes 12 days of intense preparation for an event that lasts just 15 minutes on stage. This level of detail extends to every aspect of the show, from the design and construction of sets to the careful selection of models and music.

Chanel's shows have long been renowned for their ability to transport guests to fantastical worlds they might not otherwise experience. The Spring 2012 couture show is a prime example, where the Grand Palais was transformed into a full-scale replica of an airplane, complete with passenger seats and a catwalk down the center aisle.

In recent years, over-the-top shows have become increasingly common in the fashion industry. However, Chanel's ability to consistently push the boundaries of creativity and spectacle remains unmatched. The Fall 2014 show, for instance, reimagined a supermarket setting, complete with shelves stacked with rebranded groceries.

The boundaries of creativity were pushed to new limits at Louis Vuitton's Spring 2027 men's collection show, which featured a massive multistory set piece designed to resemble a tidal wave, complete with real water.

Haider Ackermann brought his unique touch to Tom Ford with an innovative approach that saw models taking on character roles, interacting with the audience in a playful and mischievous manner.

Harper's Bazaar: https://www.harpersbazaar.com/fashion/a74252696/chanel-shows-rizzoli-coffee-table-book-evolution/

The Ballon d'Or is widely regarded as the Oscars of soccer, with the world's best players vying for the prestigious award. The event is a celebration of exceptional talent on and off the pitch, with attendees dressing up in their finest attire. This year's ceremony was no exception, with top stars from around the globe arriving at the London Palladium to see who would be crowned the year's best.

Among those competing for the coveted title was England's Harry Kane, who made history by becoming the first Englishman since 2001 to take home the Ballon d'Or. In his acceptance speech, Kane expressed his gratitude and shock at receiving the award, which is considered one of the highest honors in soccer.

As expected, the ceremony also drew attention for its fashion moments on the red carpet. Soccer's style icons made a statement with their high-end attire, showcasing designer suits from top brands such as Louis Vuitton, Dolce & Gabbana, and Dior.

The formal attire at the 2026 Ballon d'Or Ceremony was a sight to behold, with many attendees opting for classic yet stylish looks that were sure to make a statement.

One notable trend observed on the red carpet was the prevalence of done-up top buttons and tucked-in shirts, providing inspiration for those planning upcoming formal events. This attention to detail added a touch of sophistication to even the most basic outfits.

Harry Kane's choice of attire, in particular, stood out, although he opted for a more understated approach, his suit and tie combination was polished and refined. Meanwhile, Kylian Mbappé made a bold fashion statement with his Dior velvet tuxedo, which featured a satin shawl lapel and a sleek Hublot watch.

Other notable mentions include the Wales Bonner suit worn by Starboy when he accepted his award for the Socrates Trophy, its clean doubled-breasted fit and unique brooch making it a truly special look. The same can be said of Yamal's custom Chanel suit, which was adorned with a giant pink corsage, adding a pop of color to an otherwise sea of black suits.

The simplicity of Díaz's Louis Vuitton ensemble was a breath of fresh air amidst the sea of elaborate suits on display. The all-black color scheme kept things clean and classic, avoiding any unnecessary distractions.

A closer look at Díaz's jacket revealed its boxy shape with no lapels in sight, adding to the overall minimalist feel of his outfit. Meanwhile, his trousers were a statement piece, featuring big pleats that added a touch of drama to an otherwise understated look.

The details on Díaz's suit were where things got interesting. A gold brooch caught the eye, while the stitching on the lapel added a subtle yet sophisticated touch. The overall effect was one of effortless elegance.

Moving on from Díaz's ensemble, another standout look belonged to Diomandé, whose Dolce & Gabbana suit showcased his flair for fashion. A gold chain replaced the traditional tie, and the brooch pinned to his Saint Laurent jacket added a nice touch of bling to an otherwise sleek outfit.

The men's fashion at the 2026 Ballon d'or ceremony continued to impress, with Burna Boy setting a trend by wearing a velvet suit jacket and matching waistcoat.

This bold move was a clear statement of style, as the musician's outfit added depth and visual interest to his overall look. A key element in making this ensemble work was the choice of accessories - a pair of standout specs and a confident smile were all that was needed to bring the suit to life.

In contrast, Brazilian soccer legend walked the red carpet in a more classic single-breasted suit and tie combination, showcasing the timeless appeal of this traditional look. Without needing to make any bold statements, he was able to exude confidence and sophistication through his understated yet polished attire.

The evening's fashion showcase came to an end with a range of stylish outfits, each one unique in its own way - from Rodri's all-monochrome Dolce & Gabbana ensemble to Aston Villa's manager proudly sporting the AV crest on his pocket.

GQ: https://www.gq.com/gallery/2026-ballon-dor-best-menswear-looks-red-carpet

The high-profile event featured a surprise performance by the iconic boyband Backstreet Boys, who brought their signature harmonies and choreographed dance routines to the stage. Partygoers were also treated to luxurious handbags from Hermès and Chanel, handed out as favors to add to the opulence of the evening.

Drake's own wardrobe was equally impressive throughout the birthday weekend, with a discerning eye for detail evident in every outfit. On Friday night, he made a dapper impression in a black-tie ensemble featuring a sparkling tuxedo jacket, pleated suit trousers, and a crisp white shirt adorned with a diamond "D pin.

Drake's 40th birthday celebration has been marked by extravagance and generosity. The rapper brought out his one-of-a-kind diamond-encrusted Rolex Cosmograph Daytona, reportedly worth multiple millions, to add a touch of opulence to the festivities.

The partygoers were also spoiled with an array of luxurious gifts, including Chanel and Hermès handbags, which they received as part of the celebration. A game-show-style giveaway took place, offering cash prizes ranging from $10,000 to a staggering $1 million. One lucky guest even walked away with not one but two coveted items: a flap bag and a Kelly.

The entertainment at the party was a trip down memory lane, featuring a performance by the Backstreet Boys of their 1999 hit I Want It That Way." Drake joined in on the fun, singing along to the classic tune. Amidst all the celebration, the rapper also took a moment to raise a glass and offer a heartfelt toast to his guests.

As the celebrations continued on Saturday evening, Drake made a bold fashion statement by swapping his tuxedo for a striking cheetah-print Chrome Hearts jacket and bright red leather trousers.

This outfit change was perfectly suited to the occasion, as it allowed him to take center stage alongside Popcaan for an impromptu performance. The duo's energy was infectious, mirroring Drake's increasingly eclectic personal style which seamlessly blends oversized sportswear, collegiate staples, rare archival finds, and high-end accessories.

In true celebratory spirit, Drake raised a glass to his guests, marking the end of an unforgettable weekend that will surely be remembered for its extravagance and joy.

Vogue: https://www.vogue.com/article/drake-celebrates-40th-birthday

Their latest outing at the Rome Film Festival was no exception, where they both drew attention to themselves in striking ensembles. However, it was Kris Jenner's outfit that stole the show, featuring a dramatic black velvet hooded cape adorned with intricate embroidery.

The cape's ivory silk lining framed Jenner's face and added an extra touch of glamour to her overall look. She paired it with long white gloves and a floor-length white gown underneath, completing the elegant yet bold ensemble.

Jenner's choice of cape was a nod to its rich history in Hollywood, dating back to 1969 when Elizabeth Taylor wore a similar design to Princess Grace of Monaco's 40th birthday celebrations.

The occasion itself was notable for being Princess Grace's famous Scorpio Ball, held on November 15, 1969, in honor of Kelly's own star sign.

The connection between the Scorpio cape and renowned fashion designer Karl Lagerfeld remains unclear. It's possible that he was involved in creating the garment while working as a freelance designer for Tiziani at some point. Christie's has suggested that the cape may have been one of his works, although this claim is yet to be confirmed.

The cape eventually made its way to Christie's auction house in 2011, where it was sold as part of Elizabeth Taylor's extensive personal collection for a substantial $74,500. The sale highlights the enduring value and allure of high-end fashion items.

Whether Kris Jenner wore the original cape or a replica is still unknown. However, her decision to don a similar design was fitting given her own connection to the Scorpio sign, which she shares with her birthday on November 5. The significance of this astrological coincidence has not been lost on observers.

The Kardashian-Jenner family's affinity for Elizabeth Taylor extends beyond mere fashion inspiration. At the recent Academy Museum Gala, Kim Kardashian wore an archival Balenciaga gown from 1951 that was said to evoke the style of the Hollywood icon. This latest homage underscores the enduring influence of Taylor's glamour and elegance on contemporary fashion.

The Kardashian-Jenner family's love for vintage fashion knows no bounds, as evidenced by Kim's recent runway appearance for Balenciaga. The reality TV star stunned in a stunning ensemble that included diamond Lorraine Schwartz jewelry once owned by the iconic Elizabeth Taylor.

In a nod to her own personal style, Kardashian also wore an archival Yves Saint Laurent haute couture gown from 1986 to the Rome premiere of her latest project. The leopard-print dress was sourced by celebrity vintage go-to Lily et Cie and featured a unique blend of structure and drama, perfectly capturing Kim's signature flair.

When paired with mother Kris Jenner's matching velvet hood, the two created a matchy-matchy moment that showcased their individual yet complementary approaches to glamour. A day earlier, however, they had demonstrated differing tastes in sparkling attire: Kardashian opting for a cutout Erdem creation, while Jenner chose a glitter-trimmed Chanel skirt suit.

This latest display of vintage fashion flair underscores the enduring influence of the Kardashian-Jenner women on contemporary style, as they continue to push boundaries and defy expectations with their bold and eclectic choices.

Vogue: https://www.vogue.com/article/elizabeth-taylor-scorpio-cape-kim-kardashian-kris-jenner

Some individuals prefer a minimalist approach to fashion, which can manifest in their footwear choices. This might mean opting for micro kitten-heeled boots that are understated yet still stylish. Others take a more extreme stance by choosing no heel at all, valuing sleek lines over any unnecessary embellishment.

The trend of "sock boots has also been gaining momentum, with designers like Altuzarra and Chanel showcasing them on the runway earlier this year. This style typically features a form-fitting leather design that hugs the leg closely.

The trend of textural finishes is continuing to gain momentum, with snakeskin and crocodile details becoming increasingly popular on runways and shoe racks alike.

Last year's must-have print was clearly snakeskin, as it dominated the fashion scene, featuring prominently in designs from top brands such as Khaite, Duran Lantink, and Stella McCartney. This seasonal staple is set to continue making waves this fall season, with its unique texture and patterned design captivating style enthusiasts worldwide.

As consumers search for everyday fall boots, they will find a plethora of kitten heel styles available online. These low-heeled shoes offer a practical solution to added height, while still providing the desired boost to elongate the silhouette. With a height range typically classified between 5 and 2 inches, these trainer heels" are designed to be both stylish and comfortable.

The slouchy boot trend has been gaining momentum since last year when fashion houses like Isabel Marant and Louis Vuitton featured them in their collections. The relaxed silhouette of these boots adds a laid-back touch to any outfit.

A fresh twist on traditional western silhouettes is also emerging this fall, thanks to new designs from brands such as Chloé and Marni. These revamped styles are expected to become a staple in many people's wardrobes.

Elle: https://www.elle.com/fashion/shopping/a74164633/fall-2026-boot-trends/

The production values at these high-end events were as impressive as ever, with elaborate sets, stunning lighting, and celebrity cameos adding to the glamour. Meanwhile, top designers continued to push the boundaries of fashion, offering a wealth of inspiration for those in attendance.

One trend that caught attention on Paris' runways was the unconventional placement of belts. Designers like Valentino, Balenciaga, and Tom Ford featured slender belts worn low on the hips, a look that may have been inspired by the resurgence of low-rise pants. However, not all designers followed this lead.

The opposite approach was taken by Celine and Miu Miu, which opted for belting above the waist with more casual materials such as shoelaces and string. This contrast highlights the diverse influences and creative visions at play in the world of high fashion.

The resurgence of monastic chic color on Parisian runways has brought a new level of understated drama to high fashion. Designers such as Jean-Paul Gaultier and Celine have reimagined traditional monochrome looks with a sense of creativity that is both subtle and impactful.

This unexpected combination of formality and sensuality is particularly intriguing, given the humble origins of monastic attire. Fashion's usual associations with luxury and excess are turned on their head as designers experiment with the drape and drama of religious vestments in a way that borders on seductive.

The fusion of monastic robes with skin-revealing silhouettes has resulted in some truly show-stopping looks, perfect for those who want to push the boundaries of formal dressing. For those seeking an excuse to incorporate bold accessories into their wardrobe, such as rope belts, these designs offer a stylish and daring solution.

As the holiday season approaches, questions about what constitutes black tie attire will become increasingly relevant. With designers already experimenting with formal wear that blurs the lines between tradition and innovation, it's clear that fashion is on the cusp of a major evolution in its approach to dressing up for special occasions.

Designers at Paris Fashion Week are pushing the boundaries of formal wear by introducing unconventional twists on traditional black tie attire.

Matthieu Blazy's show featured a range of innovative takes on the classic tuxedo, while Haider Ackermann experimented with bold combinations such as peak-lapel jackets paired with ultra-low U-neck tees or spangly vests.

Pierpaolo Piccioli's designs for Balenciaga also deviated from traditional black tie, incorporating mesh sweaters and baggy leather jackets into his looks.

These unorthodox approaches to formal wear are likely to influence the way men dress up for special occasions in the coming months.

The message "less is more" has been a recurring theme in Parisian fashion shows, but applying this principle to everyday attire can be a challenging task.

A case in point is the enigmatic combination of white trousers, camel sport coat, and black tee that Michael Rider showcased for Celine on the runway. While it may not have been an exact replica of his design, his styling has undoubtedly inspired others to experiment with similar looks.

The recent Paris fashion shows, including those by Jean Paul Gaultier, Tom Ford, and Loewe, featured a notable absence of traditional shirts, instead opting for a more relaxed approach that prioritizes confidence over formal attire.

GQ: https://www.gq.com/story/paris-fashion-week-trends-2026