Feathers dominate haute couture as Chanel's bold trend takes flight
Feathers have taken centre stage in high fashion this year, appearing on red carpets and in designer collections. The trend gained momentum after Matthieu Blazy became Chanel's creative director in January 2024. His debut Haute Couture line showcased delicate, feathered designs that quickly became a favourite among celebrities.
Blazy's early work at Chanel set the tone, with feathers adding drama and softness to his creations. Look 35 from his first Haute Couture collection appeared at the Oscars 2026, while other pieces, like Rosalía's feathered two-piece at the Brit Awards, reinforced the trend. The Métiers d'art 2026 collection further highlighted this direction, blending extravagance with lightness.
At the Academy Awards, feathers dominated the red carpet. Teyana Taylor, Maya Rudolph, and Nicole Kidman all wore custom Chanel gowns adorned with intricate featherwork. Bella Thorne, Amy Madigan, and Jayme Lawson also chose feathered designs for the event. Meanwhile, Demi Moore stood out in a custom Gucci gown, a departure from the brand's usual sleek aesthetic, featuring detailed feather embellishments.
The trend extended beyond the Oscars. Jessica Alba and Olivia Rodrigo wore feathered dresses at Vanity Fair's after-party. Fashion analysts had already predicted feathers as a key trend for spring, following their strong presence in fall fashion weeks.
Blazy's vision for Chanel has made feathers a defining element of recent haute couture. The material's versatility—adding both movement and elegance—has cemented its place in high-profile events. With celebrities and designers embracing the look, the trend shows no signs of fading soon.
