Sandra‘s Closet

This Friday is my birthday and while I’m absolutely not asking for anything, I may have already found my dream gift.

The new bags from the CHANEL S/S 2026 Pre-Collection have completely taken over my feed. And honestly? I haven’t been the biggest fan of Matthieu Blazy’s work so far but this bag below in dark navy slowly grew on me… and now I’m fully obsessed.

The standout piece is officially called the Small Flap Bag (CHF 4190), though social media has already renamed it the «26 Bag» or «Preppy Coco.» Crafted from glossy, grained calfskin and free of the classic quilting, it feels incredibly modern, clean, and quietly confident. It comes in two sizes and is meant to be worn with longer leather straps, casually over the shoulder or tucked under the arm.

Blazy also plays with the same design language in other shapes including the so-called Small Bowling Bag (CHF 4190). It’s a sleek, cylindrical everyday bag and comes in beige, white, black, burgundy, light green, and soft pink. There’s also the Long Vanity with Leather Strap (CHF 3070), a minimalist zip-around style available in black and light pink.

But the color that truly won me over? Dark, dark navy. A beautiful deep-blue bag is surprisingly hard to find, not black, not bright blue, but that perfect in-between. In this shade, the 26 Bag feels timeless, elegant, and endlessly wearable.

So yes… I’ve officially changed my mind. Just putting that out there – purely as information, of course 🖤…

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © CHANEL
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What a whirlwind of events! While filming in Istanbul with little time to spare, the fashion world delivered a major surprise: John Galliano announced his departure from Maison Margiela after a decade at the helm of the OTB-owned brand.

John Galliano

In a heartfelt Instagram post, Galliano shared the news, writing, «Today is the day I say goodbye to Maison Margiela… I am forever grateful for this safe space to create and build a new family that supports me with courage and dignity.» He extended his thanks to his atelier team and Renzo Rosso, OTB’s chairman.

The move marks the end of an era for the house, originally established by the famously reclusive Martin Margiela. The brand gave Galliano the opportunity to rebuild his career and reputation following his controversial exit from Dior in 2011. Over the years, Galliano transformed Margiela with his signature theatricality, camp-infused creations, and innovative, deconstructed designs. He also championed gender-fluid fashion and elevated the brand’s «Artisanal» line to unprecedented levels of craftsmanship.

Me in the Maison Margiela Haute Couture studio after the amazing show in the beginning of the year, which is just next to Galliano’s office.

Under his leadership, Margiela saw significant commercial success, with a 22% rise in sales in 2023, even as the broader luxury market faced challenges. His legacy was solidified with a sensational January 2024 show in Paris, where historical couture-inspired characters roamed a haunting, mist-filled space under a bridge, complete with striking, mask-like makeup by Pat McGrath. Galliano leaves behind a storied chapter in Margiela’s history.

Galliano did not elaborate on his future plans, instead saying that «when the time is right, all will be revealed.»

Matthieu Blazy for CHANEL

I was hoping that he would be appointed at CHANEL but today the French Maison announced Matthieu Blazy as its new creative director, succeeding Virginie Viard, who departed in June. Blazy, formerly the creative head at Bottega Veneta, is recognized for his craftsmanship and innovative designs. His appointment is anticipated to infuse fresh energy into the French Maison’s iconic aesthetic. Blazy is expected to present his inaugural collection for CHANEL during Paris Fashion Week in October 2025. 

Louise Trotter for Bottega Veneta

Meanwhile in the past hours, Louise Trotter has been announced as the new creative director of Bottega Veneta, taking over from Matthieu Blazy. Known for her transformative work at brands like Lacoste and Carven, Trotter brings a refined design aesthetic and a strong sense of cultural awareness to the role. She is set to start at the luxury house in January 2025, making her the only woman currently leading a brand under Kering’s ownership. This appointment highlights her unique vision and the potential for a fresh chapter at Bottega Veneta.

One of the conglomerate’s biggest fashion brands, Fendi, has yet to name a new womenswear designer after Kim Jones stepped down from the role in October. I guess that Galliano will head up there. These significant shifts reflect the dynamic nature of the fashion industry, with Galliano, Blazy and Trotter poised to shape new creative directions in their respective roles.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of the Brands / © Sandra Bauknecht
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That was a very quick move! Bottega Veneta has named Matthieu Blazy as its creative director with immediate effect after the unexpected departure of Daniel Lee, owner Kering said in a statement.

Set to present his first collection in February 2022, Blazy joined Bottega Veneta as its design director last year under Daniel Lee and was now promoted to the top position.

Matthieu Blazy

Blazy, who leaves between Antwerp and Milan, previously worked under Raf Simons at his namesake brand and at Calvin Klein, as well as doing stints under Phoebe Philo at Celine. He also served as the designer of Maison Margiela’s «Artisanal» couture line.

Bartolomeo Rongone

Bartolomeo Rongone, CEO of Bottega Veneta, said: «Matthieu Blazy is an extraordinarily talented individual, whom I am proud and excited to entrust with the creative helm of our luxury House. Bottega Veneta has always been equated with signature craftsmanship and distinctive creativity. Matthieu’s appointment will further enhance the modern relevance of our brand and accelerate our growth, while preserving the values that are at the core of Bottega Veneta.»

Good Luck!

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of Bottega Veneta