Picture this: The elegance of Parisian luxury crashing into the raw, underground pulse of New York City. That's the electrifying scene from Chanel's 2025 Métiers d’Arts Show, where fashion's elite collided with the everyday grit of an abandoned subway station. But here's where it gets controversial: In a world obsessed with celebrity, did this debut really prove that fresh talent can steal the spotlight from the stars? Dive in, and let's uncover the models who turned heads and sparked debates.
Models
December 2, 2025
Hunter Abrams
Today marked a historic crossover: The iconic Paris Métro vibe met New York's MTA when Matthieu Blazy unveiled his inaugural Chanel Métiers d’Arts collection in a deserted Lower Manhattan subway stop. For those new to the fashion scene, Métiers d’Arts refers to Chanel's prestigious lineup of handcrafted, artisanal pieces – think intricate embroidery, expert tailoring, and unique accessories that blend tradition with innovation. It's not just a show; it's a celebration of skilled craftsmanship, often held in exotic or unexpected locations to highlight the brand's heritage.
The front row was a who's who of familiar faces: Linda Evangelista, Tilda Swinton, the legendary Dapper Dan, and Christine Baranski, all soaking in the spectacle. Yet, when it came to the runway, Blazy opted for a refreshing twist, steering clear of the industry's megastars. His upcoming spring 2026 ready-to-wear collection for Chanel featured a largely unknown cast, but it catapulted Awar Odhiang into fame through her unforgettable closing walk and radiant smile – a moment that felt like destiny unfolding before our eyes.
And this is the part most people miss: Today's New York event was packed with exhilarating newcomers, proving once again that untested talent can ignite the fashion world. Not surprisingly, several of Chanel's models call America home: Mannie Lafan hails from Chicago, Riley Lusher from Jessup, Georgia, and Nolie Munn is a proud Kansas native. But the brand's global reach shone through, drawing vibrant faces from Brazil, Canada, Senegal, and South Africa. Their interests? As diverse as their origins – from the nostalgic joy of scrapbooking to curating vinyl record collections, or even the tranquil thrill of fishing.
Below, get to know a few of the trailblazing models stepping into the spotlight at Chanel’s 2025 Métiers d’Arts show in New York City.
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Hannah Jackson is a dedicated fashion journalist at Vogue, specializing in celebrity style, emerging trends, and the occasional dip into cultural commentary. Her insightful pieces have graced the pages of Elle, The Cut, Architectural Digest, Harper’s Bazaar, Rolling Stone, W, and more. Based in New York, she's always on the lookout for the next big story. ... Read More
What do you think? Is prioritizing fresh faces over established icons the future of fashion, or does it risk overlooking proven charisma? And here's a controversial take: Could this emphasis on newcomers actually be a smart business move to rejuvenate the industry, or is it just a gimmick that undervalues experience? Share your thoughts in the comments – do you agree, disagree, or have a counterpoint of your own? Let's keep the conversation going!
