A model showcases a look on the runway at the Chanel Cruise 2026/27 show in Biarritz, France, on April 28, 2026. Getty Images
Chanel has once again captured the fashion world’s attention with a new pair of sandals that are unlike anything seen before. During the Chanel Cruise 2026/27 runway show in Biarritz, France, artistic director Matthieu Blazy debuted a pair of sandals that have since become the talk of the fashion industry. These sandals, which feature slim straps and a minimal heel covering, have drawn widespread attention for their bold and playful design.
A Bold and Playful Footwear Design
Blazy’s new sandals are described by many as bold, whimsical, and even “freaky” by fashion publications. The design features a distinctive, soleless structure with only a small heel covering, a detail that makes them stand out from traditional footwear. Women’s Wear Daily called them the “boldest footwear statement at the Chanel cruise 2027,” highlighting their unconventional and experimental nature.
The shoes forgo about three-fourths of the sole, leaving the foot exposed, and this unusual design has sparked a flurry of online commentary. Fashion site The Cut referred to the sandals as “half-finished” and “freaky-deaky,” while attracting thousands of comments on Instagram. Some users expressed shock and amusement at the sandals' design, with one Instagram post by a user (@brittanyhagantalks) receiving over 14,000 likes. Another user, @fashionablebookworm, commented, “I wish this was a joke, but sadly it’s not.”
Aimed to Spark Social Media Buzz
The sandals’ design appears to be strategically crafted to generate attention, especially on social media. Italian fashion magazine Nss suggested that the soleless footwear is intended to create buzz, which it has certainly done. The publication also speculated that while these sandals may make a bold statement on the runway, they would likely include a full sole if they were ever mass-produced for retail, due to their impracticality.
Despite their unusual nature, the sandals are receiving praise for their creativity and willingness to break fashion norms. The online reactions vary from awe to bewilderment, but no one can deny the attention they are attracting.
Celebrities and Industry Figures at the Show
The Chanel Cruise 2026/27 show was attended by several famous faces, including Nicole Kidman, Marion Cotillard, Tilda Swinton, filmmaker Sofia Coppola, and rapper A$AP Rocky, who is also Rihanna’s partner. These industry legends added further star power to the event, making the runway show even more high-profile.
Matthieu Blazy’s Role at Chanel
Blazy, who began his role as Chanel’s artistic director in April 2025, has quickly made a mark in the fashion world. Just a year into his role, he was named one of Time Magazine’s 100 most influential people of 2026. His first cruise collection for Chanel has undoubtedly created a lasting impression, with the soleless sandals leading the conversation.
