In the historic seaside town of Biarritz, where Gabrielle Chanel founded her couture house in 1915 and laid the groundwork for a fashion revolution based on freedom and practicality, Matthieu Blazy took center stage as he unveiled his first Cruise collection for Chanel.

The Cruise 2026/27 collection: Instagram

The Cruise 2026/27 collection, which debuted at Le Casino Municipal, was a blend of tradition and modernity. Blazy took a restrained approach to the house’s famous regulations, letting the narrative be guided by the movement, fluidity, and coastal ease of Biarritz.

The Cruise 2026/27 collection : Instagram 

The collection, named Sous le salon la plage, echoed Chanel’s early idea of apparel that effortlessly transitions between indoor refinement and outdoor freedom by blurring the boundaries between comfortable beachwear and structured elegance.

The Cruise 2026/27 collection: Instagram

The show began with a modern take on Chanel’s 1926 design, reinvented with Art Deco-inspired details. From there, the collection evolved into a series of fluid forms, flowing silks, lightweight tailoring, and layered looks that combined functionality and luxury. Basque stripes, raffia textures, and soft tweeds reflected the surrounding terrain, while sparkling paillettes captured the glint of sunshine on water.

The Cruise 2026/27 collection: Instagram

Blazy told a subtle story throughout the collection. Maritime references such as sailor uniforms and mermaid motifs added depth and feeling, while swim caps and beachwear recalled the artistic impact of Pablo Picasso during his stay in Biarritz. Motion was further highlighted by accessories such as oversized totes, waterproof bags and minimalist footwear, catering to both function and style.

The Cruise 2026/27 collection : Instagram

Blazy’s return to Biarritz is not merely a debut, but a thoughtful extension of Chanel’s legacy, a tribute to its roots and a daring step forward into its future.

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From mules to pumps to sandals, the return of wedges came in a full circle. Isabel Marant’s Bekett trainers and ’90s-inspired thong sandals, which anticipated the shoe trend, contributed to the comeback of these styles. They will also be available as heeled mules in spring 2026, the design is reflected in the name. Designed with comfort in mind, most styles feature walkable heels under three inches.

ALAÏA satin wedge mules — photo: mytheresa.com

Street style has already embraced the shoe, with fashion insiders in Milan and Paris combining pops of red with skirts and minidresses for a modest lift, as well as traditional black leather. Wedges can also be worn with loose-fitting tailored clothes or jeans. This is a refreshing change from spring regular footwear, ballerinas and Mary Janes.

Victor Virgile//Getty Images

One thing that makes this shoe appealing is the modest heel, which is still high but comfortable, and also it’s clean finish. There are no unpleasant ankle straps or fussy frills; instead, it is defined by its backless design and supportive wedge heel, crafted from materials like satin and leather.

Edward Berthelot//Getty Images

For those wishing to invest in a trend that blends ease and everyday wearability, wedge mules are a reliable alternative that doesn’t sacrifice style. This balance between function and fashion is exactly why the shoe is gaining pace again. Today’s versions feel refined rather than bulky, aligning with the current shift toward simple but classy and wearable design.

Reformation Marilyn Wedge Mule — Photo@ thereformation.com

Also beyond beauty, wedge mules also appeal to the modern consumer’s need for versatility. They transition seamlessly from daytime errands to evening outings without requiring a change of shoes, making them a practical addition to any wardrobe. Regardless of the type you choose, you’ll be set for spring and summer in style.

read also: Loafers Styling ideas You’ll Love  

Zara is making waves with its latest collaboration with Willy Chavarria. The designer who has gained recognition for his New York Fashion Week shows will bring a new collection of clothing, jewelry, and accessories for men and women, which will be available on the 26th of March.

“This collaboration is a way for me to share the elevated aspects of the brand vision with a wider, more democratic audience,” Chavarria says. Entitled Vatísmo—the superlative form of ‘vato,’  the collection centers on community and cultural roots, with the term ‘vato,’ drawn from Chicano culture, expressing friendship, unity, and love.

Willy Chavarria X Zara — Instagram

Chavarria also brings his storytelling into fashion, for women’s clothing, he explored styles that have previously appeared in runway shows, such as his most recent, which was staged in the Dojo de Paris against a reconstructed New York street intersection. For Zara, he imagined “a mansion in Mexico City where a family with conflict lived,”drawing inspiration from 1980s American dramas like Dallas and Dynasty mixed with Mexican telenovelas.

The Willy Chavarria woman is represented by Christy Turlington in a Glen Luchford-lensed campaign. He highlights strong shoulders in sharply tailored jackets crafted from tropical-weight wool, patent fabrics, and leather. “I wanted to create pieces people will treasure for years. The quality is impressive,” he adds.

Willy Chavarria X Zara— Instagram

Willy introduces a fresh twist to his signature trousers, for women he introduces wide-leg trousers with pleats and tailored, loose-fitting, slightly-barrelled, elasticated options for men. Skirts range from rust-hued midis to acid-washed denim and tailored styles. He includes longline shorts in both categories for summer staples.

Basic pieces like rose-embroidered bodysuits, slogan t-shirts, and ribbed socks for daily use. Accessories like flowers, lace inserts, and gem-adorned gold jewellery add glamour. The logo-stamped minishorts in the men’s line are a playful seasonal staple, paired with a slogan tee, you’re instantly part of Chavarria’s ‘Nueva York’club. This Zara collaboration aims that Chavarria’s vision reaches both fans and a growing audience.

Willy Chavarria X Zara — Instagram

don’t miss: Willy Chavarria FW26 Show at Paris Fashion Week 2026