This week in Lake Como, Chanel debuted a luxuriant Cruise 2025/26 collection at the picturesque Villa d’Este. Within lyrical, verdant gardens, opulent furnishings, and ethereal passageways overlooking the Italian utopia, the maison unveiled an effervescent new wardrobe. Tailor made for basking in divine sunrises and beguiling sunsets, Chanel’s Creation Studio garments echoed the prestigious and charismatic setting, as well as the glamorous guests who have passed through the historic Villa.
Filmmaker Sofia Coppola Sparks an Italian Daydream with Chanel at Villa d’Este
Courtesy of and © Chanel.
Visionary filmmaker Sofia Coppola commenced the festivities with a dreamlike teaser for the Cruise presentation starring model Ida Heiner. The dedicated friend of the house set an otherworldly and liberated scene at Villa d’Este, and Heiner journeyed through the Renaissance palace in crisp, high-waisted shorts, a posh swimsuit, and chic accessories.
Continuing the immersive story through marble halls and across an earth-toned terrace, the Cruise 2025/26 runway unfolded for the international glitterati. Shortened taffeta ball gowns cascaded by, enhanced with youthful flounce, in sorbet-like shades of blue, peach, and pink. Even signature tweed suits received a lush, Italian refreshment, unveiled in tranquil tones paralleling the yellow, orange, and ochre of Villa d’Este.
Chanel’s Ballet of Warm-Weather Chic Unfolds on Lake Como
Courtesy of and © Chanel.
Further, Chanel found inspiration in the visual prowess of the dancer for a soaring Cruise presentation. Imagine attending a seaside disco in the new, seductive trouser suit of light-as-air tweed, catching the moonlight just right with prismatic sequins. The gold lurex damask trouser suit is a perfect play for the impassioned Goddess, while the black as night blouse and flared trousers set is a gateway to the stars, fully embroidered in sequins. An alluring, low-cut backless jumpsuit takes the cake in pink and orange striped lamé, deliciously hidden beneath an elongated cape for a masterful entrance—or exit.
Chanel’s ballet of warm-weather chic continued with the black taffeta bustier dress and poised cape, the embroidered ivory blouse and white taffeta evening trousers, as well as the sweeping taffeta ball gown. One could certainly feel the cinematic allusions to works by filmmaker Luchino Visconti, devoted friend to Gabrielle Chanel, who enjoyed Lake Como as his home away from home.
A Picturesque Getaway with Mother Nature Awaits for Cruise 2025/26
Courtesy of and © Chanel.
Mother Nature’s nourishing presence at Villa d’Este equally energized Chanel’s tour de force collection. Colorful and spellbinding parades of oleanders, wisteria, magnolias, rhododendrons, and camellias were deftly reflected onto meticulous lacework. Come-hither floral designs were spotted in a flared dress embroidered with pleasing stripes of chiffon flowers, and in a delightful black skirt suit garnished with a beaded braid.
Plans for peaceful cruises on rejuvenating blue waters? Must-haves include the knitted cardigans, polo shirts, and dresses in an array of vivid stripes. The strawberry ice-cream hued pea coat will warm and sweeten after-dinner drinks and dessert on the deck, while luminous strings of pearls are the accessory of choice. Slip on the maison’s elongated gloves as the star in your own fantastical film, and top it off with sleek sunglasses, a silk scarf, and patent leather mules for the adventure of a lifetime, courtesy of Chanel.
Courtesy of and © Chanel.
Courtesy of and © Chanel.
