Chanel’s Fall 2025 collection at Paris Fashion Week was a sight to behold, with a stunning tribute to one of the brand's most iconic motifs: the bow. This simple yet timeless element is not just a passing trend but a symbol of elegance and history, deeply embedded in the DNA of the French fashion house. Let’s dive into how Chanel celebrated this design classic while blending the old with the new.
This morning at Paris Fashion Week, Chanel wrapped the Grand Palais with a giant black ribbon, drawing inspiration from Gabrielle Chanel’s early designs—specifically the braid pattern she once embroidered onto her creations. This was more than a nostalgic nod to the brand’s rich history; it was a statement that echoed across time, paying homage to Chanel’s roots while showcasing the brand’s timeless appeal.
I can’t help but think back to my childhood, when I first encountered Chanel’s ribbon-and-bow designs. I distinctly remember my mother wearing dresses adorned with bows, exuding an effortless charm, and this memory has stayed with me all these years. The bow, much like Chanel itself, is an enduring symbol of grace, and the house’s use of this motif today feels as fresh and modern as it did in Gabrielle’s time.
The runway show today was an exploration of this motif in various forms. Models strutted down the runway with jackets and dresses featuring oversized bows at the collars and cuffs—some in the form of real bows, others as optical illusions. The playful spirit of the bow was also evident in hair accessories, where models sported charming ribboned hairpieces. Even the dresses themselves were enveloped in ribbon-like prints, evoking a festive, almost celebratory atmosphere.
Chanel’s use of bows is not just a design choice; it’s a statement of timeless elegance. It's an element that we all recognize but can sometimes overlook in the rush to chase new trends. Yet, Chanel makes it clear that these iconic details are never outdated; they only evolve. Just like the holiday ribbons we use to wrap gifts, which carry feelings of goodwill and excitement, Chanel’s ribbons and bows are imbued with a sense of celebration, whether it’s the upcoming season or simply life itself.
But Chanel's nod to the classic bow also invites us to think about how we can incorporate these elements into our own wardrobes. How often do we look at a simple ribbon or bow and think, "I can wear that"? Whether it's a chic black ribbon tie for a formal event or a playful bow accessory in your hair or on your dress, these details can elevate any outfit and add a touch of elegance. Chanel has always been about timeless style, and this season, they've given us a new way to bring these classic elements into our modern lives.
In the fast-moving world of fashion, Chanel’s celebration of the bow proves that it’s not just about following the latest trends but about honoring the legacy of the past while embracing the future. Whether it’s the symbolic meaning of the bow or the festive ribbon prints, this collection shows that style is about more than clothes—it’s about expressing who we are, in ways that are both personal and timeless.
Much like the little black dress we all turn to in moments of need, adorned with a simple necklace and worn with confidence, Chanel’s bows remind us that sometimes, it’s the smallest details that make the biggest statement. As we look ahead, this classic motif will continue to be a part of our lives, reminding us that true style never goes out of fashion.