New chapter begins

Lagerfeld successor Viard leaves Chanel

Chanel's creative director, Virginie Viard, is leaving the luxury fashion house.

(Bild: APA/AFP/EMMANUEL DUNAND)

After almost three decades in the service of Chanel, Virginie Viard, the creative director of the legendary fashion house, is leaving her position. "A new chapter begins for Chanel Mode", the company announced on Thursday.

Viard, who succeeded Karl Lagerfeld in 2019 following the iconic designer's death, shaped the brand with her own creative vision and her profound understanding of Chanel's DNA. Under her leadership, the house underwent a continuous evolution, while always maintaining its unmistakable style and elegance.

"Remarkable contribution to fashion"
"Chanel confirms the departure of Virginie Viard after a rich collaboration of five years as Artistic Director of Fashion Collections, during which she renewed the House's codes in line with Chanel's creative heritage, and nearly thirty years with the House," the luxury brand stated, thanking Virginie Viard for "her remarkable contribution to fashion, creativity and the vitality of Chanel".

Details of the House's new creative structure will be announced shortly.

Virginie Viard (left) represented Chanel at a show in Paris

(Bild: AFP or Licensors)

A new course for Chanel
Viard's departure heralds a new era for Chanel. The search for a suitable successor is already underway and the decision is likely to be made in the coming weeks and months. The choice of the new creative director will have a significant impact on the future of the house and will set the course for the next chapters in Chanel's history.

Viard's time at Chanel was characterized by continuity and innovation. She preserved the iconic elements of the brand, but reinterpreted them and added her own modern twist. Her collections were praised by critics and fashion lovers alike and helped to cement Chanel's position as one of the world's leading fashion houses.

Viard's departure marks a turning point for Chanel, and the fashion world is eagerly awaiting the future of the house. The choice of the new creative director is being followed with great interest, as this decision will determine the direction and image of the brand for years to come.